Great Outdoors upcoming events

SD - Baja Mexico 3-Day Expedition (Fri, April 10, 2026)

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

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: mikewilken@yahoo.com

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

CORP - Outdoors Experience - Hike Leader - Trip Leader (Fri, April 10, 2026)

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:00:00 GMT

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:

Beth Schneider, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here

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:

Wilderness Navigation: Finding Your Way Using Map, Compass, Altimeter, & GPS. Bob Burns, Mike Burns
The National Outdoor Leadership School's Wilderness Guide. Mark Harvey
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

SD - Campout - Mount Diablo State Park (Fri, April 10, 2026)

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Mount Diablo State Park Campout

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

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

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.

OCLB - Inglewood Urban Walk (Sun, April 12, 2026)

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

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: fredincal346@gmail.com 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: tobyfred92@gmail.com. Phone: 562-754-1838

OCLB - Postponed to a Later Date Due to Rain!Historic Signal Hill Hilltop Walk (Sun, April 12, 2026)

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

POSTPONED!

Great Outdoors

Orange County/Long Beach Chapter

presents:

Historic Signal Hill Hilltop Walk

Sunday, April 12, 2026, 10:00 am

Meeting Location:

Hilltop Park Picnic Tables

2351 Dawson Ave, Signal Hill, CA 90755

(Skyline & Dawson)

This FREE guided tour focuses on the top of Signal Hill, with it's rich history over the past century. The tour includes an experienced guide, rich history of millionaires' homes, shocking stories of oil field development, and the remarkable Model T car and skateboard recreational races.

This will be led by Joe Holliday.

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

Trip Leader: Joe Holiday

Email: joewholliday@yahoo.com

Phone: 562-417-4742

Sponsored by the Signal Hill Historical Society

SD - Social - The Big Gay Picnic: Trans Takeover Edition (Sun, April 12, 2026)

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Join the Big Gay Picnic for Trans Takeover Edition! Check-in at the welcome booth to get your passport and travel around to various local groups to discover our queer community here in San Diego. Prizes available for participants in the passport activity. Prizes may include local donations from local organization like music or performance tickets.

Bring a potluck item to share, enjoy community over lunch and make memories. Photo booth and live music will be featured at no cost - and a live performance around 1:30pm!

Note: This event is sponsored by the Big Gay Picnic with Great Outdoors cross-promoting.

Parking Information: Pay parking at Balboa or local community street parking

Costs involved: Free! Bring a potluck item

Pets Permitted: Yes (leashed)

Who to Contact with Questions: Big Gay Picnic (Instagram instant message is recommended for quick response)

Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

PS - Hike: Lost Horse Loop Trail - Joshua Tree National Park (Mon, April 13, 2026)

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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 bring: Ten 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.

PS - Hike: Badlands Indio Hills (Tue, April 14, 2026)

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

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 Indio. Arrange 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.

PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Apr 15 (Wed, April 15, 2026)

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

PS - Bike Ride: Tahquitz / Deepwell City Loops + from Demuth Park (Thu, April 16, 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Starting at the Demuth Park CV Link Station we will ride The Link to Crossley and then to Rt. 111, west to Laverne, Toledo and Murray Canyon Rd. We will push the boundaries of these two City Loops by riding to the Indian Canyon Entrance Booth where we will turn around and return along Camino Real and the Tahquitz Creek Bridge. At this point we will ride the CV Link east to the Sunrise Underpass and return to Demuth Park via Mesquite and Belle Aire Greens to El Cielo for the return to Demuth Park.

We will be riding on The CV Link, neighborhood roads, bike lanes and Sharrow marked streets. There are a number of busy intersection crossings at traffic lights.

Meet Location: meet at 7:30 AM at the Demuth Park CV Link Station along Mesquite near the large dog park. Map click here.

Distance: Total length about 18 miles.

You should consider yourself a confident street cyclist to enjoy this ride.

All riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmets and carry emergency contact information.

Remember to inflate your tires to the recommended PSI. Don't forget when checking your tires to readjust your seat height in order to get your best leg extension while riding.

Bring: Water, snacks, sun protection and layered clothing. You may choose to bring along bicycle repair paraphernalia.

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.

SD - Social - Monthly Bonfire (Thu, April 16, 2026)

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck

Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month, April thru October 2026

Time: 5:30-9:00 pm

Cost: Free

RSVP: None needed.

Note: This event is hosted by California Men's Gatherings with Great Outdoors, SAGA ski club, F.O.G., Pozabilities, and SDBears collaborating to support our LGBT+ community!

DESCRIPTION: Thanks go to Ted and Adrian for bringing supplies and to Ray (Kiwi) for coordinating delivery of the wood! We're ready for another great season of chilling together by the bay!

VOLUNTEERS: It would be great to have one or two people who can arrive early (around 4:30 or 5) to secure one of the fire rings. We could also use a third person capable of hauling wood to the site. Please let us know if you can do these simple but vital tasks.

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck item and a beverage of your choice. (Alcohol is prohibited in Mission Bay Park.)

Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many entrees

and sides.

2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use!

3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one. A portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or extra firewood are also much appreciated!

4) A significant other, friend, or cuddle buddy.

DIRECTIONS: Take the I-8 freeway west toward Mission Bay, exit onto Mission Bay Drive and make a right, then merge into the far-left hand lane onto Ingraham Street, heading North, then make a left onto Vacation Rd as if you were heading into Paradise Point Resort (previously Pacific Princess Resort). Then an immediate Right before entering the resort to get to the side parking lot. We’ll be on the left (West) side of parking lot by the rest rooms. (Note: we're on the WEST side of Ingraham St. Don't confuse this spot with a similar one on the east side of the street.)

Please note: The two fire rings adjacent to the parking lot may be occupied by other groups. If that happens, keep walking up to the right, under the bridge, and we'll be at the first fire ring we can find.

California Men’s Gatherings fosters a safe, supportive, welcoming community where men challenge themselves to develop their emotional, spiritual, social, intellectual and physical lives—with as much fun as possible along the way!

If connecting with men is important to you, attending a LIVE or ONLINE event is a great way to find out about the California Men’s Gatherings and the many wonderful men who get involved. Since 1978, CMG has been a place where all men—gay, bi, trans, and straight—from 18-80+ can find a different way to connect. Men who come to CMG events and gatherings are predominately gay and bisexual, but all persons identifying as male, 18 years or older are welcome. Visit http://thecmg.org for more information.

SD - Hike - Green Valley Falls (Sat, April 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Green Valley Falls Hike

Saturday April 18th, 2026 @ 9am

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 scott_opis@hotmail.com

Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

OCLB - Atlantis All-Gay Mexican Cruise! 2026! (Sat, April 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Great Outdoors OCLB

Special Cruise Ship Tour Event!

Calling All Enthusiastic Travel Lovers!

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

Mexican cruise which will go to Ensenada, Cabo 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:

President-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org

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!

PS - HIKE: PCT South from Hwy 74 (Mon, April 20, 2026)

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

PS - Hike: Indian Loop Trail Pioneertown (Tue, April 21, 2026)

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:30:00 GMT

This high desert 7 mile hike begins at the Wildlands Conservancy Ranger Station at Pipes Canyon. The route is through a shady cottonwood grove, along a stream, past Joshua trees and stone ruins of a settlement, up a canyon (the majority of the elevation), through a field of volcanic rocks and past a Sawtooth ridge. There are great views in all directions.

Afterward, an optional lunch at Papi and Harriets.

Trail Length: 7 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,000 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Trail Terrain: Mostly dirt with some sandy and rocky surfaces
Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Strenuous
Meeting: 7:30 AM
Meeting Place: Carl's Jr. Racquet Club and Palm Canyon Drive. Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share.

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch, trail snacks, sun protection (there will be full sun the entire way), layered clothing, Emergency Contact Information ("ICE"), sturdy footwear with good tread. Hiking sticks are highly recommended.

NOTE: For the safety of all participants, we will be double-checking that each participant is wearing footwear with tread sufficient for these trails and has a sufficient amount of water.

Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information. When you sign up for a hike, the hike leader may ask about your experience and stamina. This is for your safety and that of the group. Your understanding and cooperation is appreciated.

Contact hike leader: Howard K. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - Movies - SEE UPDATE BELOW IN RED - Saving Nature Film Festival (Wed, April 22, 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Great Outdoors is a sponsor of the Saving Nature Film Festival supporting Oswit Land Trust’s mission to protect and preserve wildlife and natural habitats. This festival offers thought-provoking films to spotlight the beauty and fragility of our natural world. Join environmental enthusiasts, community members, and film lovers for a memorable experience of entertainment, education, and impactful activism. Join us for all or some of the films.

UPDATE: OSWIT LAND TRUST JUST INFORMED US THAT GREAT OUTDOORS MEMBERS MAY REQUEST TWO COMPLIMENTARY PASSES BY RSVPing to DAVID PAISLEY at DavidP@OswitLandTrust.org!

If you already purchased a pass, Oswit Land Trust appreciates your financial support.

Program One Starts at I:00 PM
Program Two Starts at 2:15 PM
Program Three Starts at 3:30 PM

Location: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E Baristo Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262. There is plenty of free parking.

Learn more about the preserve by visiting Oswit Land Trust

PS - Hike: Big Morongo Canyon Trail (Sat, April 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Big Morongo Canyon

This is a downhill hike from the Morongo Canyon Preserve to the Desert Hot Springs area. The trail winds through the canyon with the terrain gradually changing from lush vegetation to dry desert. Since this is a one way hike, car shuttles will be used.

Distance: 6 miles

Elevation Gain: 30 ft.

Hiking Time: 3.5 hours

Trail Type: Dirt then rocky stream bed

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

Meeting is at 6:50 AM (for 7:00 AM departure) in the parking lot next to Carl's Jr, at the corner of N. Palm Canyon and Racquet Club in Palm Springs, enter on Racquet Club click here

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. Drivers who do not know the location of the preserve should look at this map to the parking lot.

Hike Leader: John R. email

Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

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.

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

PS - Game Night Hosted by Robert & John (Sat, April 25, 2026)

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Robert Varga and John Simonsen have invited us all to a Game Night on Saturday, April 25th, 2026 at his beautiful home in PALM DESERT.

NOTE: This event will have a maximum capacity of 60 people

This event will be indoor/outdoor.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:

5:00 PM to 6:00 PM - ARRIVAL, CHECK IN, SWIM, & APPETIZERS.

6:00 PM to 7:00 PM – POTLUCK DINNER

7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – GAME TIME

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck Item for at least 8 people

2) Pool is open, its 75F, if you want to swim, please bring a towel and swimwear, nudity is not allowed.

2) Your own beverage(s), GOPS will supply 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.

Our chapter is always looking for Game Night Hosts!

Please text or call Robert Varga at 760-641-9112 or email GameNightCoordinator-PS@greatoutdoors.org 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.

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

LA - Bike Ride: CicLAvia-West LA (Sun, April 26, 2026)

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Join us for the upcoming Los Angeles Open Streets Event:

CicLAvia—West LA!

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

Meeting Time: 10am–depends on pace, lunch, etc. Maybe 3 hours.

Meeting 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, jbutta@pacbell.net

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

SD - Social - Paragliding Adventure (Sun, April 26, 2026)

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

SD - Torrey Pines Gliderport Paragliding

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 flights, equipment 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 theroosdens@gmail.com

Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

PS - Hike: Toutain Canyon and Waterfall (Mon, April 27, 2026)

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

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 forecast: click 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.

OCLB- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Hawaii Big Island Day Hikes (Tue, April 28, 2026)

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT

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. 28^th, 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 BoardRep-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org

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.

PS - Monthly Membership Meeting (Tue, April 28, 2026)

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 01:30:00 GMT

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.

PS - Lost Creek Canyon Ranch Tour & Breakfast (Thu, April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

A Forgotten Oasis Overlooking the Coachella Valley

Lost Creek Canyon Ranch & Breakfast

Experience this remote canyon, 400 acre sanctuary with ecological and historical wonders that has long been closed to the public-----until now.

A "step back in time" to a 150-year-old homestead. Set into the foothills of the Coachella Valley, this is not your grandaddy's ranch. This ground has played host to Native Americans for more than a thousand years before the arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century.

The first permanent dwelling in the valley was built here in 1876 by the Stubbes. They operated a stagecoach stop and provided "bordello comforts" for weary travelers headed toward the coast.

If these hills could talk, they would speak of subsequent owners that include a hermit named Herman, a world-famous business executive turned architect, and a pioneering cancer researcher.

The current owners have spent five years bringing this unique property back to life, preserving a spectacular range of flora, fauna, and vistas found nowhere else and home to a variety of animal rescues.

Itinerary Details

Guided Exploration: A 5-hour immersive tour of the historic structures, hidden streams, and lush orchards.

Physicality: Expect light hiking with some terrain changes. Off-road vehicle transport will be utilized to tour the property.

Breakfast: Creekside under giant shade trees, catered by Cornerstone Barbecue.

Exclusivity: This is a rare opportunity to step onto ground that was previously off-limits to the general public.

Cost: $215.50 per person.

Payment Process

After you submit your registration information with Great Outdoors here, you will receive a confirmation email. Open the email and click the payment link provided. This link will take you directly to the Lost Creek Ranch website to complete your payment.

Select April 30 at 7:00 AM as your reservation time.

Available to nonmembers and guests.

Meeting Locations:

6:10 am Meet at Palm Springs PetSmart Ramon/Crossley Map for 6:15 am departure. Or meet at the gate at the entrance to the Ranch at 6:55 am. (Haugen-Lehmann exit north from I-10): map click here

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

Requirements: Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for safety around the animals and uneven terrain.

Tour Start Time: 7:00AM

End Time: 12:00 pm

Contact trip leader: Scott C.: email click here

Photos click here

Palms Springs Life click here

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 trip leader that may affect your ability to complete this event or any special accommodations needed.

SBVC -Cerro Alto- Cruisin' Morro Bay Car Show 2026 (Thu, April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Cruisin’ Morro Bay 2026

This campout focuses on the Morro Bay car show. This 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, thus fostering a sense of togetherness throughout Morro Bay and beyond. Here is a website for you to check it out: https://www.morrobaycarshow.org/ . Hope to see you at the grounds or at the main event! Carpooling is encouraged due to limited parking, okrr?

WHERE: Cerro Alto Campground. 13741 Cerro Alto Road, Atascadero, CA 93422.
The city of Atascadero is off Highway 101, while Morro Bay is off Highway 1 from SLO. The campground is conveniently located on Highway 41, between Atascadero and Morro Bay, typically a 15 to 20-minute drive from either location. It is located in the Los Padres National Forest, and it is a dry camp with pit toilets scattered across the grounds. There are water spigots available for use as well. Signal is spotty, so make sure to message the trip leader ahead of time before heading over.

.

CAMPING FEES:
Members: $75/person...........Non-members:$100.
Other fees, such as zoo entrance fees or lake activity fees, are not included. Non-member fees will include GO membership. Carpooling is highly encouraged as parking is limited.

.

WHEN: The campout starts on April 30th, check-in at 1500, to May 3rd, check-out at 1200. Friday check-ins are also allowed. The trip schedule is seen below. The following activities can be done as a group or peel off on your own.

DATE

TIME

ACTIVITY

NOTES

APR 30
THUR

1500

1700-1900

Campground CHECK-IN/ Welcome

1,2,3, HIKE!
Boyscout and Bridge Loop.
Moderate. 4.8 mi. 1154 ft elev gain.

SBVC Welcomes You to the Central Coast.

The trail offers breathtaking views of Morro Bay. Path is rocky with small gravel, so wear good grippy shoes. Diverse landscapes with overgrown sections.

MAY 1
FRI

1000

1030

1230

1330

1600

To Atascadero, We GO!

Central Coast Zoo, Atascadero Lake & Park.

Lunch in DT Atascadero

Sunken Garden, City Hall, Centennial Park, Colony Museum

Back to the campground

The times for these listed activities are just a guesstimate. Some activities may take longer or shorter depending on the group.

Zoo entrance fee ($15) and lunch is pay your own.

Other activities available in A-Town are hiking, thrifting, fishing, and paddling.

Another alternative is visiting DT Paso Robles, wine & beer tasting, and shopping.

There is also a mission in San Miguel. Just sayin'.

MAY 2
SAT

1000

1800

To Morro Bay Car Show!

POTLUCK DINNER

All day main event.
There are also opportunities for antique shopping, kayaking, hiking, surfing, people watching, sunbathing, downtown walking.

TBD. It could be in town OR Back to the campground.

MAY 3
SUN

1200

CHECK OUT/ Lunch

Lunch location TBD.

Land Acknowledgement
We want to respectfully acknowledge the Salinan and Northern Chumash People, who have stewarded this land throughout the generations.

For questions, please send a text message to the trip leader, either Joe 18055881142 or co-leader Gener 18057095379.

#CentralCoastVibes #SLOLife #EightOhFive #WeAllFam

SD - Social - Out At The Park (Padres Vs White Sox) (Fri, May 01, 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Join Great Outdoors San Diego at Out At The Park!

Registration includes a ticket to the game and a free Padres Pride Hat and a donation to San Diego Pride!

It's that time again! Let's help the Padres and the San Diego Pride community celebrate Out at The Park at Petco Park on Friday, May 1st at 6:40pm. Tickets are $60 and will be in sections 228/230. If you arrive early they offer a pregame happy hour at Gallagher Square with CocktailFest from 4:30pm-6:30pm.

Here are a couple fun facts about the San Diego Padres that you might not know credit to https://www.mlb.com/padres/history

The San Diego Padres founded their own hall of fame in 1999:

Since 1999, 14 legendary individuals have been inducted into the San Diego Padre’s hall of fame. Some key examples of which include Tony Gwynn, Trevor Hoffman, Randy Jones, Ted Williams and Kevin Towers.

They joined the MLB in 1969.

Prior to 1969, the San Diego Padres were a minor league team. However, in 1969 the Padres were chosen along three other minor league teams to join the MLB.hey joined the MLB in 1969:

Note: If you arrive early they offer a pregame happy hour at Gallagher Square with CocktailFest presented by Southwest Airlines from 4:30pm-6:30pm.

PS - Bike Ride: CV Link Loop with North and West Neighborhoods (Sat, May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 14:30:00 GMT

This bicycle ride loop will incorporate CV Link sections from Demuth Park to the 34th St. access near the Dinah Shore underpass. Riding north to Vista Chino and beyond to exit the CV Link at the Sunrise north terminus will bring us onto neighborhood streets in north and west Palm Springs. After cruising through Old and Vista Las Palmas and The Historic Tennis Club we will reconnect with the CV Link at Sunny Dunes and Mesquite for the return to Demuth Park.

Gradual inclines heading north, and two short steep hills in Vista Las Palmas will allow for gear and power adjustments. There are a few busy crossings at intersections with traffic lights.

Meet Location: meet at 7:30 AM at the Demuth Park CV Link Station along Mesquite near the large dog park. Map click here.

Bathrooms will be available at Demuth Park, Esperanza Park, Victoria Park and The Downtown Park.

Distance: 18 - 20 miles. Know your gears!

You should consider yourself a confident street cyclist to enjoy this ride.

All riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmets and carry emergency contact information.

Remember to inflate your tires to the recommended PSI. Don't forget when checking your tires to readjust your seat height in order to get your best leg extension while riding.

Bring: Water, snacks, sun protection and layered clothing. You may choose to bring along bicycle repair paraphernalia.

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.

PS – Hike: Mission Creek to Whitewater Overlook via PCT North (Mon, May 04, 2026)

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Hike Mission Creek, Stone House to Whitewater Overlook via Pacific Crest Trail North, a distance of approximately 7 miles. The trail is in good condition, is not very steep, and is moderate in difficulty. The route is a gradual incline of about 900' gain. We will snack/lunch at the overlook. The hike is rated moderate.

Meet At: 8:00 AM at PetSmart/Walmart at Ramon and Crossley in Palm Springs Map here
Please arrive early for a prompt 8:00 AM departure. The last 4+ miles drive is on dirt and rocky roads; high clearance vehicle is not required.
Hiking time: 3.5 hours; return by 2:00 PM.

Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 to 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. This hike is rated moderate - 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.

Hike Leader: Kirk O. email click here

Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.

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

PS - Hike - Jane's Hoffbrau Oasis & Eagle Canyon - SAVE THE DATE (Tue, May 05, 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Hike to a small oasis with dry waterfalls and a stand of Washingtonia palm trees.

Length: About 4 miles
Route: Out and Back
Hike time: About 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 825'
Difficulty: Moderate — climbing a sometimes steep, sandy trail.

Meet for an 8 a.m. start 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. Please arrive at least about ten minutes early for introductions and briefing. Map Click Here

Outing details: 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. 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.

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

Contact leader: Howard G. - email click here

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

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

Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information. Most of the hike is in full sun

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

PS - Volunteer: The LGBTQ Center Food Bank - May 7 (Thu, May 07, 2026)

Thu, 07 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

The LGBTQ Center Food Bank provides residents of Riverside County with fresh produce, baked goods, proteins, pantry items, dairy, and more. They are open every Thursday evening throughout the year to offer free, nutritional food in a clean, safe setting, with more than 26,594 people served over the last 12 months.

Come join us at The LGBTQ Center Food Bank in Palm Springs and prepare and distribute food boxes. Make a difference in our community, join with like-minded people, have fun!

4:00 pm. Meet at The LGBTQ Center's Food Bank at 2901 East Alejo Rd, Palm Springs, California 92262 (Map click here). Park inside the gate.

Wear comfortable, closed toe, and sturdy footwear.

Contact: Jeff C: 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.

PS - WALK: CV Link Crossley (Sat, May 09, 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join us for a walk on the CV Link along Tahquitz Creek. Enjoy views of the creek, golf course, and the Bringas Bridge artwork. Optional breakfast at the Tahquitz Creek cafe after the walk.

Duration: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles out and back
Terrain: Cement path

Meeting Location: Meet near the entrance of the Tahquitz Creek Golf Course parking lot. (Map click here)

Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 or 2 liters recommended), and snacks. Hat, sunscreen and layered clothing are recommended.

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

Contact: John R. email

Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

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.

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

SD - Social - The Big Gay Picnic: Great Outdoors Edition (Sun, May 10, 2026)

Sun, 10 May 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Join Great Outdoors at the Big Gay Picnic for Mother's Day on May 10th! Check-in at the welcome booth to get your passport and travel around to various local groups to discover our queer community here in San Diego. Prizes available for participants in the passport activity. Prizes may include local donations from local organization like music or performance tickets.

Bring a potluck item to share, enjoy community over lunch and make memories. Photo booth and live music will be featured at no cost - and a live performance around 1:30pm! The Queer Sol Collective is co-partnering, so expect burning man vibes, unique art, and a central art installation featured!

Join for the day or volunteer to help out as able. See you there!!

Parking Information: Pay parking at Balboa or local community street parking

Costs involved: Free! Bring a potluck item

Pets Permitted: Yes (leashed)

Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden 651.497.1611

Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: Desert View Trail (Notches) (Mon, May 11, 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Trail Length: 2 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 300'
Difficulty Rating: Easy except for occasional steep uphill climbs on well developed trails and a long, paved ramp. Suitable for physically fit beginners. Participants may choose to dine together at the Mountain Station (optional--bring a packed lunch, or, select the buffet or sit-down restaurant).

Meeting Time/Location: Arrive at the Tram base station at 9:30 AM, in time to line up for the 10:00 AM tram (directions here). If anyone is not able to board due to crowds, make yourself known to the hike leader so the group can wait for your arrival at the top of the tram on the second tram car.

Tram Ticket Cost: $33.95 - $36.95. To pre-purchase your ticket and for more information on the Tram click here. If purchasing your ticket online in advance and the 10:00 a.m. time is sold out, do not purchase a later time. Tickets will usually be available for in-person purchase when you arrive at the station. Summer and Annual Passes are also available.

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

SD - Social - Monthly Bonfire (Thu, May 14, 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck

Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month, April thru October 2026

Time: 5:30-9:00 pm

Cost: Free

RSVP: None needed.

Note: This event is hosted by California Men's Gatherings with Great Outdoors, SAGA ski club, F.O.G., Pozabilities, and SDBears collaborating to support our LGBT+ community!

DESCRIPTION: Thanks go to Ted and Adrian for bringing supplies and to Ray (Kiwi) for coordinating delivery of the wood! We're ready for another great season of chilling together by the bay!

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck item and a beverage of your choice. (Alcohol is prohibited in Mission Bay Park.)

Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many entrees

and sides.

2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use!

3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one. A portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or extra firewood are also much appreciated!

4) A significant other, friend, or cuddle buddy.

SD - Baja Mexico 3-Day Expedition (Fri, May 15, 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 15:30:00 GMT

3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION:

HIKING + NATURE + WINERIES + BAJA CUISINE

May 15th-17th, 2026

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

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: mikewilken@yahoo.com

HIKES EVERY DAY:

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.

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

Day 1: Friday, May 15

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

OCLB - Yosemite National Park 2026 Spring - Curry Village (Fri, May 15, 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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:

President-OCLB@greatoutdoors.org

Photos: Previous OCLB Yosemite Treks

We have a great, fun time! Join us!

PS - Game Night - Hosted by Carl Hack - SAVE THE DATE (Sat, May 16, 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Carl Hack have invited us to a Game Night on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at his stunning home in Palm Springs.

NOTE: This event will have a maximum capacity of 50 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.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:

4:00 PM to 5:00 PM - Check-In, Appetizers, Social, and Swim time

5:00 PM to 6:00 PM - Potluck Dinner

6:00 PM to 9:00 PM – Game Time

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Pool Time - If you want to swim please bring swimwear and a towel. Nudity is not permitted.

2) Potluck Item for at least 8 people.

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

4) Table Games you want to play (Great Outdoors provides many games) However, you are welcome to bring a game that you would like to play with other members.

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 GameNightCoordinator-PS@greatoutdoors.org 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.

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

Thank you for participating in the Great Outdoors club!

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: Hidden Lake (Mon, May 18, 2026)

Mon, 18 May 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Hike to a very special and unique place with one of the best views overlooking the valley and unique natural features found nowhere else in the world. Visitation to this area is restricted and allowed only with a special permit.

Trail Length: 3-4 miles (depends on how much we explore)
Elevation Gain: 500'
Difficulty Rating: Moderate

Meeting Time/Location: Arrive at the Valley Station at 9:30 AM, in time to purchase tickets (if needed) and line up for the 10:00 AM tram (directions here). If anyone is not able to board due to crowds, make yourself known to the hike leader so the group can wait for your arrival at the Mountain Station on the second tram car of the day.

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- May 20 (Wed, May 20, 2026)

Wed, 20 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

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.

SD - Monthly Dinner and Meeting (Wed, May 20, 2026)

Thu, 21 May 2026 01:15:00 GMT

Monthly Dinner & Meeting

Join Us for Community, Connection & Great Conversation!

The Great Outdoors San Diego Core Group gathers monthly to share ideas, break bread, and build our outdoor community together - and we'd love to see you there!

Whether you're a long-time member, curious newcomer, or somewhere in between, this is YOUR chance to:

Meet our passionate Core Group members face-to-face
Share your ideas, questions, and feedback - we genuinely want to hear from you!
Connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts over good food and great company
Help shape the future of GOSD adventures

Here's How It Works:

️ 6:15pm - Arrive early for food & mingling at Urban Plates (1620 Camino de la Reina, San Diego CA 92108). Order some food, meet at one of the outdoor patio tables, eat and chat!

7:00pm - Montnhly meeting kicks off (we'll wrap up by 8:30pm)

Parking: Free and easy in the lot

Planning to join us? Please RSVP so we can save you a seat!

Questions? Reach out to Brent Sammons at 858.663.2865

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

SD - Hike - Warrior Hike to El Capitan Mountain Peak (Sat, May 23, 2026)

Sat, 23 May 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Warrior Hike - El Capitan Mountain

Saturday May 23, 2026 at 7:30am

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 TheRoosdens@gmail.com

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

CORP - All Chapter Jamboree at Hurkey Creek Campground near Idyllwild (Thu, May 28, 2026)

Thu, 28 May 2026 21:00:00 GMT

proudly presents

All Chapter Jamboree!

Thursday, May 28 to Sunday, May 31, 2026

Hurkey Creek Campground near Idyllwild

Group Site "C"

56375 CA-74, Mountain Center, CA 92561

So what is a "Jamboree?"

In other words, it's a PARTY!

Overview

The Jamboree is a long-standing Great Outdoors tradition! It's a campout consisting of all the Great Outdoors chapters.

We anticipate this selling out quickly so register NOW!

This Jamboree is going to be remarkable!

It's our first Jamboree since before the COVID pandemic!

The Jamboree helps to fund the Outdoor Experience training program!

Venue

The elevation is about 4,500' so plan on possible cool nights.

We have reserved Group Site C, the largest group site in the campground!

Restrooms and hot showers are very close!

LINK TO MAP

LINK TO LOCAL WEATHER

Registration

Event fee: $75/person for Great Outdoors Members. Non-members must first join Great Outdoors ($25) before registering. All registrants must be GO members.

LINK TO JOIN GREAT OUTDOORS

Option: $30/person for 2-hr. Pontoon boat ride on nearby Lake Hemet.

Electronic payment for the event fee is accepted on the GO website. No cash or paper check, please.

Cancellations and refunds: No refunds will be granted for cancellations received after 5/17/26. There will be a $10 cancellation fee charged if cancelled by 5/17/26.

Please contact Cliff Clue for cancellations:

EMAIL CLIFF

Itinerary

Thursday, May 28

2:00 pm - Check-in begins. Please do not arrive before 2:00 pm
5:00 pm - Meet and Greet (please bring an appetizer to share).
8:00 pm - Campfire (depending on current fire conditions).

Friday, May 29

7:00 am - Coffee and pastries.
9:00 am - Easy local hike from the campground.
1:00 pm - Activities such as 4 x 4 trip, board games, etc.
6:00 pm - Potluck item to share. If you bring a vegan or vegetarian item, please help out your fellow vegans/vegetarians by marking it clearly as such.
8:00 pm - Campfire (depending on current fire conditions).

Saturday, May 30

7:00 am - Coffee and pastries.
9:00 am - Easy local hike.
1:00 pm - Optional Pontoon boat ride at nearby Lake Hemet, sightseeing in nearby Idyllwild or board games in the campground.
6:00 pm - Hosted Taco Bar! There will be a Vegan option.
8:00 pm - 80's Dance Party and hopefully a campfire!

Sunday, May 31

7:00 am - Coffee and pastries.
11:00 am - Tearful goodbyes and check out.

Please wear your best 80's outfit!

There will be a prize for Best Costume!

Video from Dance Party at 2024 GO Conference!

Refresh Your Memory on '80s Slang Words & Phrases

Bad to the bone: Extremely cool or rebellious.
Bitchin': Really good or impressive.
Bodacious: Excellent or admirable, often used to describe someone's look.
Bogus: Fake, unfair, or bad.
Buggin' out: Overreacting or acting crazy.
Choice: High-quality or excellent.
Cowabunga: An exclamation of triumph or surprise.
Dweeb: A nerdy or socially awkward person.
For Sure: Yes, absolutely or definitely.
Fly: Stylish or fashionable.
Gag me with a spoon: I'm disgusted!
Grody: Gross or disgusting.
Psych: Used after a fake statement to show someone was tricked.
Righteous: Awesome or high-quality.
Tubular: Fabulous or cool, originating from surfing.
Valley Girl: An adolescent girl from the San Fernando Valley.
Wastoid: A burnout or someone who uses too many drugs.

Optional: 2 hr. Pontoon Boat Ride on Lake Hemet ($30/pp)

You must select and pre-pay for this option when registering!

Campground Details

Potable Water

Hot Showers

Flush Toilets

Picnic Tables

Fire Rings

Quiet time: 10pm to 7am

Group Site C has plenty of RV, tow trailer and tent sites.

Water is available on-site, but there are no electric hookups. There is a dump station at Lake Hemet. Generator hours are from 8 am to 8 pm.

No fires of any kind will be allowed on red flag days or as posted. Keeping our fingers crossed that campground fires will be allowed!

What to Bring

Obviously The 10 Essentials.

Recommended Gear: Tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, ear plugs, pillow, chair, camp stove with fuel and cooking utensils, lighter or matches, camp kitchen supplies, headlight or flashlight with batteries, cool and warm weather clothing, toiletries kit, hiking shoes, camp shoes, day pack, hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Bring quarters to use the showers.

Food: Bring enough food for your Thursday dinner, Friday and Saturday lunches, and dinner potluck item for Friday night.

To reduce waste, bring your reusable plate, cup, and utensils. Single-use plates, cups, and utensils are available if needed.

The nearest store for groceries is about a mile away at Lake Hemet. They have ice, a deli and ice cream as well. Idyllwild is about 5 miles away.

Volunteers

We need a few volunteers to help with making coffee, meal prep, clean-up, etc. Please see any of the Jamboree committee members:

Cliff Clue (PS)

Steve Sisneros (LA)

Russell Hammerl (LA)

Richard Norman (OCLB)

Questions?

Please contact Cliff Clue with any questions:

EMAIL CLIFF

Bad to the bone: Extremely cool or rebellious.
Bitchin': Really good or impressive.
Bodacious: Excellent or admirable, often used to describe someone's look.
Bogus: Fake, unfair, or bad.
Buggin' out: Overreacting or acting crazy.
Choice: High-quality or excellent.
Cowabunga: An exclamation of triumph or surprise.
Dweeb: A nerdy or socially awkward person.
For Shurrr!
Fly: Stylish or fashionable.
Gag me with a spoon
Grody: Gross or disgusting.
Psych: Used after a fake statement to show someone was tricked.
Righteous: Awesome or high-quality.
Tubular: Fabulous or cool, originating from surfing.
Valley Girl
Wastoid: A burnout or someone who uses too many drugs

SBVC- DAY WALK: PISMO BEACH CLASSIC CAR SHOW- SAVE THE DATE (Fri, May 29, 2026)

Fri, 29 May 2026 19:00:00 GMT

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.*

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, June 01, 2026)

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - Power Baseball Pride Night & BBQ (Tue, June 02, 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Great Outdoors PRIDE Night at the Ballpark!

Join us for one of our most popular summer events—we had over 60 attendees last year—as we celebrate Pride with the Palm Springs POWER during their Pride Recognition Night! Enjoy great food, great company, and a fun night of baseball under the lights.

Event Highlights

$26 per person – All‑you‑can‑eat BBQ
Pre‑game group photo with the POWER team
Food plate options: Hamburger, Hot Dog, or Veggie
Two sides included
Soft drinks & water included (other beverages available for purchase)
Reserved tables under the shade tent
Reserved stadium seating for our group
Cooling misters throughout the stadium
Pets welcome

Arrival & What to Bring

Meet at the stadium entrance at 6:00 PM to get your wristband and join the group photo.
Wear your Great Outdoors T‑shirt, hat, or name tag to show your pride and represent the club.

Who Can Attend

Open to members, guests, and nonmembers—everyone is welcome to join the fun!

Refund Policy

No refunds, but you may transfer your spot to someone else.

Event Leaders

Scott Connelly – email (click here)
Robert Varga – email (click here)

Location: Palm Springs Stadium, Sunrise Park

⚾ About the Palm Springs POWER

The Palm Springs POWER are a summer collegiate baseball team playing at Palm Springs Stadium and are part of the California Premier Collegiate League. Many of the players are hoping to catch the attention of major league scouts who may be in attendance.

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, June 08, 2026)

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - HIKE: PCT North from Hwy 74 (Fri, June 12, 2026)

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 13:30:00 GMT

PCT North from Hwy 74
It's cooler, it's greener, and it's moderate. Join us for a 4 mile hike with a 577 foot elevation gain on the Pacific Crest Trail north from Hwy 74. It's a good trail with scenic views. Optional stop after the hike at Paradise Valley Cafe for a cold drink or food on their patio. Meet at 6:15 AM for prompt 6:30 AM departure at Denny’s in Cathedral City (69050 CA-111, Cathedral City, CA 92234). Map Click Here

Trailhead elevation: 4900' Map Click Here
Difficulty Rating: Moderate - Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information. When you sign up for a hike, the hike leader may ask about your experience and stamina. This is for your safety and that of the group. Your understanding and cooperation is appreciated.

Contact hike leader: John Ryan 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 6:30 AM. Distance to trailhead is 29 miles, directions Click Here

Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

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

LA - Camping: Mammoth Lakes/ Owens Valley (Fri, June 12, 2026)

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Mammoth Lakes/ Owens Valley Tent Camping Adventure

Theme: Pride in the High Sierra!

Start: Friday June 12, 2026, 2 PM

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

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

Join us for a four-day tent camping adventure exploring the spectacular landscapes of California’s Eastern Sierra Nevada. From our base camp near Mammoth Lakes, we’ll visit alpine lakes, volcanic craters, geothermal springs, historic mining towns, and some of the oldest trees on Earth.

This trip combines scenic drives, natural history exploration, easy hikes, and relaxed social time around camp.

In celebration of Pride Month, we celebrate our LGBTQ+ community while enjoying connection, friendship, and the beauty of the Eastern Sierra together.

Base Camp:

We will tent camp at Sherwin Creek Campground (elevation 7,600 ft), located in a Jeffrey pine forest just south of Mammoth Lakes.

Amenities:

Potable water
Vault toilets
Picnic tables
Fire rings
Bear-proof food lockers (required)

Trip Highlights:

Volcanic Landscapes: Hot Creek Geological Site and Panum Crater
Tufa Towers: Mono Lake
Gold Rush History: Bodie State Historic Park
Sierra Scenery: Convict Lake and the Mammoth Lakes Basin
Ancient Trees: Optional visit to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Saturday Night Potluck: Group potluck dinner at camp

Pace & Difficulty:

This trip is designed to be flexible and relaxed. Most walks are 1–3 miles or less, and participants are welcome to explore at their own pace or relax at camp.

Schedule:

Friday, June 12 – Travel & Arrival

0900 AM: Recommended Departure time from LA area
12:00 PM: Meet at Red Rock Canyon State park (parking lot on right side of highway 14) for picnic and geology explanation
2:00 PM: Meet at Fossil Falls parking lot (right on Cinder Road off Rt. 395) for a guided 1500 foot hike to the dry waterfall of the ancient Owens River
5:00 PM: Estimated arrival at Sherwin Creek Campground
6:00 PM: Informal meet-and-greet (bring snacks/beverages to share)
7:00 PM Dinner at camp (bring/cook your own)
8:00 PM: Campfire

Saturday, June 13 – Mammoth Area Natural History

9:00 AM: Depart camp for:
- Horseshoe Lake
- Hot Creek Geological Site
- Convict Lake
- Minaret Vista
- Optional: Devils Postpile National Monument
6:00 PM: Group potluck dinner at camp
Evening: Campfire

Sunday, June 14 – Mono Basin & High Desert

9:00 AM: Day trip to:
- Mono Lake
- Panum Crater
- Bodie State Historic Park
- June Lake Loop
Evening: Return to camp, dinner on your own, and campfire

Monday, June 15 – Bristlecone Pines & Return

Morning: Break camp (must be out by 12:00 noon)
Optional stops at the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Lunch stop in Bishop (location TBD)

Wildlife & Safety:

This is an active black bear habitat. All food, coolers, and scented items must be stored in bear-proof lockers—never in tents or vehicles.

What to Bring:

The 10 Essentials
Camp chair and sun protection
Insect repellent
Personal food, cooking gear, and reusable plates/utensils/cups
Layers (night temperatures can drop into the 40s°F)
Locally purchased Firewood bundle (available at camp)

Special Feature

Our excursions will include the expert leadership of Joe Holliday, former Professor of Geology and Earth Science and an international naturalist guide for National Geographic Expeditions and other organizations.

Carpool Requirement & Coordination (Important):

Due to limited parking at Sherwin Creek Campground, carpooling is required.

Participants are responsible for arranging their own carpools
Trip leaders cannot organize or assign carpools
Participants without a carpool may not be allowed to attend

Drivers who are looking for another passenger, as well as potential passengers who wish to carpool are urged to communicate using the Group Carpool link below. Event registration is not required before posting on the carpool link. In addition, posting on the link does not mandate anyone to carpool with any one individual. Drivers are responsible for choosing who they give a ride to.

https://groupcarpool.com/t/er9dqg

Registration Options:

Driver – $60 (Limited to 10); must carry at least one passenger)
Passenger – $60 (up to 18 spots) You may use the carpool link above to seek a ride. Join waitlist if none ride available at this time.
Day Tripper – $10 (no overnight parking or camping) Select this option if you will not be registering via GO but wish to join in club activities.
Designated Trip Leaders (2); must carry at least one passenger

Tent camping only. No RVs, trailers, campers, motorhomes, etc. will be allowed as part of this event. Anyone who wishes to bring theirs is welcome to make their own reservations directly with the campground.

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 for any cancellation.

Contact John Blasco at johnlongbeachmsn.com if you need to cancel.

PS - Guajome Park in Oceanside, CA Campout - SAVE THE DATE (Sun, June 14, 2026)

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 21:00:00 GMT

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 Cellars, tasting 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 rvarga0@icloud.com 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.

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, June 15, 2026)

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- June 17 (Wed, June 17, 2026)

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

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.

SD - Social - Monthly Bonfire (Thu, June 18, 2026)

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck

Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month, April thru October 2026

Time: 5:30-9:00 pm

Cost: Free

RSVP: None needed.

Note: This event is hosted by California Men's Gatherings with Great Outdoors, SAGA ski club, F.O.G., Pozabilities, and SDBears collaborating to support our LGBT+ community!

DESCRIPTION: Thanks go to Ted and Adrian for bringing supplies and to Ray (Kiwi) for coordinating delivery of the wood! We're ready for another great season of chilling together by the bay!

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck item and a beverage of your choice. (Alcohol is prohibited in Mission Bay Park.)

Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many entrees

and sides.

2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use!

3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one. A portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or extra firewood are also much appreciated!

4) A significant other, friend, or cuddle buddy.

LA-Camping at Sturtevant (Fri, June 26, 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Another announcement will be emailed when registration is opened.

SAVE THE DATE!

Sturtevant Camp Weekend

June 26-28

Join us for a fun, rustic weekend in a secret gem of our San Gabriel Mountains. 133 year old Sturtevant Camp is only accessible by foot, hidden deep in magical Big Santa Anita Canyon. With bunk bed cabins, a group lodge house for cooking and eating together, games and a giant swing, this will be a restful retreat and chance to unplug.

Trip Leader: Bryan Matsumoto bmotzbmotz@gmail.com

SD - Camping/Backpacking - John Muir Lakes (Sun, July 05, 2026)

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:00:00 GMT

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 (steve.thrives@gmail.com) 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.

Directions: 370 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

SD - Camping - Free Membership Campout @ Mount Laguna (Thu, July 09, 2026)

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT

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 joneal97m@gmail.com 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

PS - Camping - Idyllwild Regional Park (Sun, July 12, 2026)

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT

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.

PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- July 15 (Wed, July 15, 2026)

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

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.

SD - Social - Monthly Bonfire (Thu, July 16, 2026)

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck

Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month, April thru October 2026

Time: 6:00-9:00 pm

Cost: Free

RSVP: None needed.

Note: This event is hosted by California Men's Gatherings with Great Outdoors, SAGA ski club, F.O.G., Pozabilities, and SDBears collaborating to support our LGBT+ community!

DESCRIPTION: Thanks go to Ted and Adrian for bringing supplies and to Ray (Kiwi) for coordinating delivery of the wood! We're ready for another great season of chilling together by the bay!

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck item and a beverage of your choice. (Alcohol is prohibited in Mission Bay Park.)

Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many entrees

and sides.

2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use!

3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one. A portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or extra firewood are also much appreciated!

4) A significant other, friend, or cuddle buddy.

SD - Hike - SD Pride Parade March (Sat, July 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:00:00 GMT

San Diego Pride Parade

San Diego Pride was formed in 1974 as a sponsored program of The Center for Social Services, the organization produced the first Lesbian and Gay Parade in San Diego to celebrate the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion on New York’s Christopher Street. San Diego Pride incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1994, and today it continues to bring together the skills, talents, and visions of our diverse community through numerous programs.

San Diego Pride raises funds primarily through festival ticket and beverage sales, and through sponsorships, and exhibitor fees. These funds support San Diego Pride’s community philanthropy which has distributed more than $2.5 million in advancement of its mission to foster pride, equality, and respect for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities locally, nationally, and globally.

Day of instructions will be shared closer to the event.

If you are joining us for the march but are unable to attend the rally, please reach out!

Hike Start Time and Location: 10am in Hillcrest, exact location TBA

Hike Length: 1.5 miles

Hike Elevation Change: negligible

Hike Difficulty Rating: low-moderate due to usual summer heat

Estimated Hike Time: 2 hours once we start

Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): One-way, return to your cars on your own

Hiking Trail Details (AllTrails or Similar link): https://sdpride.org/parade-2025/

Parking Information: Street parking, ride-share recommended

Costs involved: Free!

Pets Permitted: Yes but not recommended. Dogs MUST be riding in a cart provided and pulled by their owner. NO walking dogs will be allowed to join our contingent.

Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden 651.497.1611

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

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, July 20, 2026)

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

OCLB - Zion National Park Group Camp - Save The Date! (Mon, July 20, 2026)

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 19:00:00 GMT

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

LA - Misc: Smokey Robinson & Gladys Knight at the Hollywood Bowl (Fri, July 24, 2026)

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 02:30:00 GMT

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:

Hollywood Bowl Parking, Shuttle & Transportation Info | Hollywood Bowl, or
Carpool/ride sharing information: Due to liability and insurance reasons Great Outdoors cannot organize carpools and hike/trip leaders cannot take an active role in making arrangements for participants' transportation.

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.

Special: In addition to the tickets mentioned above, we have one full box available (Terrance 6, Row 1260, Seats 1- 4). The cost is the regular ticket price of $185/seat. No cancellation accepted for these. Sale is final. Contact John Butta for more details, jbutta@pacbell.net or 213-200-7843.

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 jbutta@pacbell.net

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.

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, July 27, 2026)

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

SD/OCLB - Great Outdoors Archive Visit @ USC Libraries ONE Archives (Sat, August 01, 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:45:00 GMT

USC ONE Archives Visit

Saturday Aug 1, 2026 at 10am sharp

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)

12pmn Lunch

Potential Urban Walk Information: This hike from the ONE Archive at USC to lunch. This urban walk is expected to take 30mins at a generous pace.

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.

Cost: Free for Archive visit

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)

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, August 03, 2026)

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

SD - Education - Hunter Safety Certification Course (Sat, August 08, 2026)

Sat, 08 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Hunter Education Certification Course

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

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 TheRoosdens@gmail.com

Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, August 10, 2026)

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - Camping - San Gorgonio, San Bernardino NF (Thu, August 13, 2026)

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Escape to the Cool Mountain Forest Under the Stars

Join us for a peaceful midweek getaway at 6,500 feet, where the night sky sparkles above a quiet conifer forest. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, this serene campground offers a refreshing break from the summer heat and the crowds.

Spend three relaxing nights surrounded by towering pines, fresh mountain air, and the natural beauty of the area. Enjoy nearby Jenks Lake, hike along the scenic Santa Ana River, or explore further adventures with Big Bear Lake just 25 miles away.

Whether you’re looking to hike, unwind, or simply take in the starlit sky, this is the perfect mountain escape.

Thursday, August 13

2:00 pm - Check-in - go directly to your site
5:30 pm - Meet and greet BYOB, dinner on your own
7:00 pm - Group campfire activities
Stargazing - Perseid Meteor Shower!

Friday, Aug. 14

7:00 am - Peet’s coffee and breakfast items
9:00 am - Hike to Jenks Lake (3 to 4 miles round trip)*
6:00 pm - Potluck dinner
7:30 pm - Group campfire activities

Saturday, Aug. 15

7:00 am - Coffee and pastries

Hike* or 4x4 trip

1:00 pm - Big Bear town*
6:30 pm - Check white board*
7:30 pm - Group campfire

Sunday, Aug. 16

12:00 pm - Check out

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

Amenities and Notes:

Tents will be on the large spacious sites separate from RV's
Flush toilets, picnic tables, grill/fire rings, and drinking water.
Bears frequent the area; follow all food and garbage disposal regulations. Food storage lockers on site.
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov. - 'Buy It Where Your Burn It' Available on site at $8-10 a bundle, cash only.
Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. Campfires must be kept small and in the fire ring.
Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 8 am.
Each "tent first person" registration includes parking for 1 vehicle. Second person sharing a tent must arrive with first person in same vehicle. No extra parking available. Tent sites will not be shared with RV's.
Back into your site - safety requirement for emergency evacuation.
Park all tires on pavement - environmental issues - strictly enforced.
Specific campsite assignments will be sent a week before the event.

Notes/conditions for RVs: This is a dry camping. Fresh water spigots available throughout camp and at the dump station. The dump site is located nearby ($10 fee). Generators may be operated between 7 am and 10 pm. Maximum site size is 35 feet. Maximum of 2 vehicles per site. RV with tow vehicle attached upon arrival counts as 1 vehicle. If tow vehicle is not attached upon arrival, occupant is responsible for extra parking fees $8 per day. Your tow vehicle must fit on your site with all tires on the pavement.

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, camp chair, daypack for hiking, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, some cash, and your name tag. Bring your senior Golden Age Park pass if you have one.

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.

Location/Directions: Latitude 34.171955, Longitude -116.875098

Distance is approx. 70 miles from Palm Springs via Interstate10.

From I-10 take SR-38 North. From the Mill Creek Ranger Station. The campground is approximately 20 miles to the entrance. Turn left into the campground. From the Big Bear Discovery Center take SR-38 towards Redlands for 25.8 miles and turn right into the campground. Google Map

Hazard Warning!! - Dangerous intersection at entrance to camp from Highway 38 - limited visibility. Use extra caution when exiting the camp back on to the highway.

Nearby Trails:

Ponderosa Vista Nature Trail, 0.6-mile length
Whispering Pines Trail, 0.5 mile
Rio Monte Trail, 2.5 miles
Big Falls Trail, 0.3 mile
Jenks Lake Trail,1 mile
Wild Horse Creek, 5 miles

Website: San Bernardino National Forest. Campground map click here

Climate: Ave Temps: 77° / 44° Current Weather click here

Refunds: Cancellation for a refund, minus any service fee, must be received by August 1, 2024.

Payment: You can pay with the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Pets: Are welcomed. Must be kept on leash. Please pick up after your pet.

Photos: click here

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.

Contact Leaders:

Doug Wylie email click here
Scott Connelly email click here

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

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, August 17, 2026)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Aug 19 (Wed, August 19, 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

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.

SBVC - Duck Creek Campout (Revised) (Wed, August 19, 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Ready for an Unforgettable Escape? Come join your GO friends to Southern Utah! -Updated ticket costs-

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 087,089, 090(Loop D)

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 there. There 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 $85 for driver, $70 for Passenger, tent camping only

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. 19^th: 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. 20^th: 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 21^th: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 22^th: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 13^th: 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 10th you will receive a refund minus a $10 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)
muddbilt@comcast.net

SD - Social - Monthly Bonfire (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck

Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month, April thru October 2026

Time: 6:00-9:00 pm

Cost: Free

RSVP: None needed.

Note: This event is hosted by California Men's Gatherings with Great Outdoors, SAGA ski club, F.O.G., Pozabilities, and SDBears collaborating to support our LGBT+ community!

DESCRIPTION: Thanks go to Ted and Adrian for bringing supplies and to Ray (Kiwi) for coordinating delivery of the wood! We're ready for another great season of chilling together by the bay!

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck item and a beverage of your choice. (Alcohol is prohibited in Mission Bay Park.)

Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many entrees

and sides.

2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use!

3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one. A portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or extra firewood are also much appreciated!

4) A significant other, friend, or cuddle buddy.

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, August 24, 2026)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

PS - Hike: Top of the Tram: T.B.D. - SAVE THE DATE (Mon, August 31, 2026)

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing; hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.

Contact hike leader: Kirk O. click here

Cancellation: 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 member, click here

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

SBVC - Flying Club / Primetimers BBQ - SAVE THE DATE (Sat, September 12, 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 07:00:00 GMT

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...*

SD - Social - Monthly Bonfire (Thu, September 17, 2026)

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck

Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month, April thru October 2026

Time: 5:30-9:00 pm

Cost: Free

RSVP: None needed.

Note: This event is hosted by California Men's Gatherings with Great Outdoors, SAGA ski club, F.O.G., Pozabilities, and SDBears collaborating to support our LGBT+ community!

DESCRIPTION: Thanks go to Ted and Adrian for bringing supplies and to Ray (Kiwi) for coordinating delivery of the wood! We're ready for another great season of chilling together by the bay!

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck item and a beverage of your choice. (Alcohol is prohibited in Mission Bay Park.)

Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many entrees

and sides.

2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use!

3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one. A portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or extra firewood are also much appreciated!

4) A significant other, friend, or cuddle buddy.

SD - Urban Walk/Social - San Diego Zoo (Sat, September 19, 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

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 k.j.archer1@gmail.com

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

SD - Backpacking - Boundary Waters Canoe Area (MN) (Sun, September 20, 2026)

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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 TheRoosdens@gmail.com

LA - Camping: Point Mugu State Park - Sycamore Canyon Campground (Thu, September 24, 2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Point Mugu State Park - Sycamore Canyon Campground

SAVE THE DATE!

Sep 24 - 27

Registration opens in July.

Located in the far western Santa Monica Mountains, this park features five miles of ocean shoreline with rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons, and wide grassy valleys.

Directions: Google Map

Prices: tbd

Tent and RV sites:

Tent sites: 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 33
RV sites: 42, 52, 53, 56
Tent campers and RVs will be sharing sites with other tent campers to maximize space for everyone, e.g. 3 tents per site or 1 RV and 1 tent.

Booking Private Sites: If you’d like to reserve your own private campsite (most commonly for RVs or extra personal space), you can reserve directly here: https://www.reservecalifornia.com/park/694/624

Parking:

Sycamore Cove, Mugu Beach, and La Jolla Canyon parking lots open at 8am and close at sunset.
Sycamore Canyon campground gates open at 8am and close at 10pm. No entry after 10pm.
We will have limited parking spots available at the reserved campsites, and preference will be given to those who carpool. Click here for carpool opportunities. Solo drivers: drop gear, then park in overflow/day-use lot (talk to rangers for guidance).
Fees include entry for 1 vehicle and 1 legally towed vehicle or trailer, additional vehicles will be charged per night at the park. Although your site may hold 2 or more vehicles, your reservation only covers 1 vehicle (except for group or specialty sites).
Overflow/day-use parking is available at the following rates:
- All day – $12.00 per car, per day
- 3 hrs – $9.00 per car
- 2 hrs – $6.00 per car
- 1 hr – $3.00 per car

Schedule of Events*

Thurs, Sep 24

2:00 pm - Check-in
6:00 pm - Meet and Greet BYOB - bring snacks to share. Dinner on your own
7:00 pm - Group campfire; location TBD; bring firewood (In the event wood fires are banned, propane tanks will be available to fuel propane fire rings).

Fri, Sep 25

7:00 am - Continental breakfast/coffee
10:00 am - Depart for morning hike (Point Mugu Scenic Trail to Great Dune View Trail Out and Back (2.24 miles, moderate)
Lunch: on your own
Afternoon: Relax at camp or at the beach
6:30 pm - Potluck (bring a dish to share)
7:00 pm - Campfire/Movie

Sat, Sep 26

7:00 am - Continental breakfast/coffee
10:00 am - Hike: Ray Miller Backbone Trail (5.4 miles, moderate)
Lunch: on your own
Afternoon: Relax at camp or at the beach
6:30 pm - Potluck (bring a dish to share)
7:00 pm - Dance Party under the Bridge

Sun, Sep 27

7:00 am - Limited Continental breakfast/coffee
12:00 pm Check out/Leave No Trace
tbd - Possibly stop off at another beach on the way home

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

Climate: 73/57 degrees. View weather forecast - click here

Amenities: Showers - The park has only token-operated showers. The token machines accept ONLY one dollar bills, and you will receive 2 tokens for a dollar. Change for larger bills is not available at this time.

What to Bring: The Ten Essentials, Meet and Greet item, Potluck item, and other considerations:

Warm sleeping gear – It can get cool at night, so bring a warm sleeping bag, extra blankets, or whatever you need to stay comfortable.
Camping chair – Highly recommended for meals, campfires, and relaxing around camp and at the beach.
Beach towel and umbrella – If you plan to spend some time at the beach, a beach towel and umbrella are sure to come in handy. The beach is just a few minutes walk from our reserved campsites.
Warm and cool weather clothing – Malibu should have warm and sunny weather, but weather can change throughout the day, so layers are best.
Comfortable hiking shoes – Especially important if you plan to join any of the area hikes.
Drinks and water – Bring everything you need, including drinking water. According to the website potable drinking water is currently available, but that can always change.
Party Outfits
Firewood – Pick up firewood at a grocery store or hardware store on your way up in a larger town. We will want plenty for the weekend. For additional firewood at a lower price, you can also stop at Adam’s Firewood on the way up (cash only): https://maps.app.goo.gl/AYT5sPFLGQbf3Dy3A

Pets: Pets are welcomed, but must be kept on leash in campground and day-use areas. Pet owners are responsible for picking up after their pets. Pets are not permitted on park trails.

Links:

Carpool Sign-Up: Carpool Sign-Up Site
Photo Album: click here to add your photos
WhatsApp Group Chat: click here to join the WhatsApp Group for this campout
Campground Info: General Info & How to Book Private Site

Trip Leader Contact: John Butta, jbutta@pacbell.net

Refunds: Cancellation for a refund must be received by August 15; a $10 cancellation fee will apply. Cancellations after August 15 will receive no refund. All cancellation requests must be sent to the Trip Leader. Please let the trip leader know whether you prefer to receive your refund via PayPal or Zelle. You will need to provide the email address associated with the means you choose.

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

SBVC - Lake Lopez: AG Harvest Festival - SAVE THE DATE (Thu, September 24, 2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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...*

SD - Social - Monthly Bonfire (Thu, October 15, 2026)

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck

Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month, April thru October 2026

Time: 5:30-9:00 pm

Cost: Free

RSVP: None needed.

Note: This event is hosted by California Men's Gatherings with Great Outdoors, SAGA ski club, F.O.G., Pozabilities, and SDBears collaborating to support our LGBT+ community!

DESCRIPTION: Thanks go to Ted and Adrian for bringing supplies and to Ray (Kiwi) for coordinating delivery of the wood! We're ready for another great season of chilling together by the bay!

WHAT TO BRING:

1) Potluck item and a beverage of your choice. (Alcohol is prohibited in Mission Bay Park.)

Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many entrees

and sides.

2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use!

3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one. A portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or extra firewood are also much appreciated!

4) A significant other, friend, or cuddle buddy.

SBVC/CORP - 48th All Chapter Conference and Campout - SAVE THE DATE (Fri, October 16, 2026)

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 07:00:00 GMT

*** 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

SD - Sale - San Diego Pride TShirts! (2022-2025) (Tue, October 20, 2026)

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 19:00:00 GMT

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 TheRoosdens@gmail.com

Costs: $30/Shirt with shipping included. For bulk orders, please inquire for pricing.

Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden at TheRoosdens@gmail.com

Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

PS - Travel: Copper Canyon Excursion (Sun, October 25, 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 07:00:00 GMT

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.

Click the "Registration" button above (clicking the Registration button will not reserve a booking for you on the trip).
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.
At the end of the Batopilas & Beyond brochure are instructions on how to BOOK the trip.
Booking confirmation is not final until payment to COPPER CANYON ADVENTURES.

PS - Camp - Death Valley 4x4 Plus - SAVE THE DATE (Thu, November 12, 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 20:00:00 GMT

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

OCLB - Egypt! Egypt! Egypt! November 2026! (Fri, November 13, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Great Outdoors OCLB

presents

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 payment@geotours.us 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:

President-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org

We are ready to do it again!

Join us!

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!

SD - Urban Walk/Social - San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Sun, November 15, 2026)

Sun, 15 Nov 2026 17:00:00 GMT

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 k.j.archer1@gmail.com

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

PS - Dos Picos County Park Campout-SAVE THE DATE (Sun, November 22, 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

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 10^th, 2024.

Dos Picos County Park Campground

17953 Dos Picos Park Road

Ramona, CA 92065

(760) 789-2220

Trip Leader Contact: Robert Varga
rvarga0@icloud.com
(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!!

PS - Travel: Pride Amsterdam and Rhine River Cruise (Sat, July 31, 2027)

Sat, 31 Jul 2027 07:00:00 GMT

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.

Pride Amsterdam and Rhine River Cruise

7 Days

July 31 through August 7, 2027

(Not including optional pre- and post-cruise land tours.)

Captivating Rhine

Special Group Pricing starting at $3,129 per person, double occupancy, available until June 30,2026!

(Not including air transport. Pricing based on stateroom category.)

Per the GOPS group foreign travel bylaws/guidelines, you will be making the actual reservation through Kirk Olsen Cruises & Adventure Travel, California Seller of Travel Number 2083884-50. (See GO International Travel Policies here).

The purchase of travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Event Coordinator: Kirk 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:

Click the "Registration" button above (clicking the Registration button will not reserve a booking for you on the trip).
An email will be sent to you with a link that will direct you to important trip booking information. Please click on the link in the e-mail to be taken to comprehensive information on this trip, including information on how to book.
Booking is not complete until deposit and then final payment has been made.