Upcoming events

Switch to Calendar View

• OCLB - Amazing California Geology (Free) Talk by Prof. Joe Holliday

  • When
    Wed, March 04, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
  • Location
    LB Environmental Svcs. Bureau, 2929 E. Willow St. Long Beach, CA 90806

  Register

  
  

  OCLB Chapter of the Great Outdoors invites you to

  
  

  Amazing California Geology Free Talk

  by GO member Prof. Joe Holliday

  Wed. March 4, 2026 at 6:00 pm

  Long Beach Environmental Services Bureau

  2929 E. Willow Street

  Long Beach CA 90806

  
  

  Don't miss out on this special opportunity to hear National Geographic Naturalist Prof. Joe Holliday in Long Beach!  His presentation will be of great interest to our many hiking and camping enthusiasts!

  
  

  

  Prof. Joe Holliday

  Show details
• LA Marathon, Volunteer Team

  • When
    Sun, March 08, 2026
  •  
    5:00 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Spaces left
    12
  • Registered
    3 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Los Angeles Marathon

  Volunteer with the Great Outdoors Team
  

  
  

  

  LA Marathon Volunteers Needed! 
  

  ‍ Hydrate the Runners 

  Great Outdoors is organizing a crew for the LA Marathon! Being at a water station is one of the most high-energy ways to experience the race.

  We are looking for volunteers to join our Water Station Crew for this year’s Los Angeles Marathon!

  This is your chance to support thousands of runners as they conquer 26.2 miles. You’ll be the fuel that keeps them moving toward the finish line!

  What We’ll Be Doing:

  • The Prep: Filling cups (with lightning speed!) to keep the tables stocked.

  • The Hand-off: Perfecting the "reach and release"—extending your arm with a cup for runners to grab as they fly by.

  • The Hype: Cheering, clapping, and providing that extra boost of motivation when they need it most.

  Event Details:

  • When: March 8, 2026

  • Time: 5:00 AM – 11:30 AM, Yes, 5:00 AM,  The wheelchairs are the first to bolt, next the elite runners, then all runners. Let’s get up and go!

  • Directions click here: Water Station, Mile 8, We will be at Hollywood Blvd & Lyman Place in east Hollywood, near Hillhurst Ave.

  • Perks: A front-row seat to the marathon, a volunteer t-shirt, and that unbeatable feeling of helping your community.

  Pro-Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring your loudest cheering voice!

  Two steps to join the team?

  1. Click the link below and register with the marathon organizers: https://titanvolunteers.com/gm/6792 

  2. Register with Great Outdoors LA

  Let’s make this the best-hydrated mile in Los Angeles!

  If you register and then cannot go, please cancel your registration online ASAP to open up spaces. We don’t want runners to go thirsty.

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

  Team Leader: Russell Hammerl [email protected]

  
  

  Team Leadrer: Russell Hammerl

  
  

  © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., 

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

  
  

  Show details
• OCLB - Pre-St. Patrick's Gay - Happy Hour Mixer & Monthly Chapter Meeting!

  • When
    Thu, March 12, 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina 6270 Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach CA

  Register

  
  

  Great Outdoors

  OCLB

  
  

  St. Patrick Gay Mixer

  &

  Monthly Chapter Meeting!

  Thursday - March 12!

  Come Get Happy!

  Bonus!!

  T-shirt give-away

  for best dressed for St. Patrick's Gay!

  Wear your kilts!

  We dare you!

  (Obviously these guys don't need shirts!)

  

  2 GO T-shirts will be given away!

  Special request: 

  We want as many people to attend as possible! 

  PLEASE 

  register so we can notify Acapulco that afternoon

  the number of attendees.

  

  Start the weekend early!

  Acapulco Restaurant Y Cantina

  6270 Pacific Coast Hwy

  Long Beach

  

  Join us for

  Happy Hour Mixer

  in our private room.

  
  

  The GO OCLB Board meeting will convene at 7:30 pm in the restaurant (along with ordering an optional meal) to conduct their monthly meeting.  

  Cantina Happy Hour is from 3 PM to 8 PM.  

  
  

  All Members & Core Group can make introductions, snack, socialize, toss around ideas/suggestions and make merry!  

  Each person is responsible for their own beverage and snack ordering and payment.

  Come and meet your board members and fellow outdoor enthusiasts in a relaxing atmosphere.

  
  

  Core Group will begin their meeting where the various trip leaders will have a chance to highlight their recent and upcoming trips, and answer any questions.

  We will continue to focus on future activities of 2026 and how to further engage with our members.

  Any and all members are allowed and encouraged to attend and participate!  (Please be aware that only Core Group Members are allowed to vote during the Core Group meeting.). 

  Meeting will adjourn upon completion of agenda!  

  Aiming for 8:30 PM.

  

  Photos from previous Monthly Meetings:

  

  Members above in their Red / Valentine's Day attire from 2025.

  
  

  Richard VP of Outings announces future activities.

  

  Members who won GO OCLB T-shirts!

  
  

  A few of the Core Group:  Robert, Lance, Richard, Frederick -Chapter Treasurer, and Rick.

  If you have any questions please contact:

  Robert (Outreach) at:  [email protected]

  Richard (VP of Outings) at: [email protected]

  or 

  Lance (President) at:  [email protected]

  
  

  Show details
• SBVC - Petersen Automotive Museum

  • When
    Sat, March 14, 2026
  •  
    11:00 AM
  • Location
    Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles
  • Spaces left
    24

  Register

  Trip to Petersen Automotive Museum
  Saturday, March 14, 2026
  Time 11:00 AM

  Join us for a group outing to LA’s iconic Petersen Automotive Museum—filled with incredible cars, design, and history. Whether you’re a car buff or just enjoy cool exhibits and good company, this will be a fun shared experience!

  

  Meet: 11:00 AM in the first‑floor lobby
  Plan to spend 2–3 hours exploring the main exhibits, with an optional Vault tour (about 90 minutes) featuring over 300 rare and iconic vehicles.
  We recommend buying tickets online in advance for faster entry.
  

  Location:
  Petersen Automotive Museum
  6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
  https://www.petersen.org/

  Tickets:

  • Adult + Vault: $51 | Senior (62+) + Vault: $49
  • Adult or Senior (No Vault): $22

  Parking:
  On‑site garage via Fairfax Ave
  $18 first 2 hours, $3/hr after (max $24)
  Accessible parking available on Level P1. There are 3 EV spots on P1. And levels P2-P4 are NOT serviced by elevators.

  Bag restrictions:
  Large bags (over 15 x 12 x 4 inches) may need to be checked at the Security Desk. Medical necessities are exempt.

  Directions (from Santa Barbara):
  Take 101 South → 405 South → 10 East, exit 7B (Fairfax Ave).
  Turn left onto Fairfax and continue about 2 miles.
  Turn right into the garage just before Wilshire Blvd.

  Carpooling:
  For those interested in carpooling, we’ll meet at the free parking lot at the Carpinteria Amtrak Station located at 475 Linden Ave.
  Schedule:
  •    8:30 AM – Arrive, park, and get situated
  •    8:45 AM – Meet up and confirm carpools
  •    9:00 AM – Be on the road

  Meal:
  We're planning on grabbing a late lunch at a nearby restaurant for all those interested.  
  

  Trip Leader:
  Roy Ragle, [email protected] | 323‑445‑7889
  
  

  
  

  Show details
• LA - Hike: Stoneview Nature Center and Culver City Steps

  • When
    Sun, March 15, 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Stoneview Nature Center
  • Registered
    14 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Join us at Stoneview Nature Center

  for a hike to the Culver City Steps and 

  Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

  Sunday, March 15, 9 AM - 12 PM

  Location: Meet at 9:00 AM at the Stoneview Nature Center: 5950 Stoneview Drive, Culver City, CA 90232

  Distance of hike: approximately 2 hours, 2.5 miles, Moderate difficulty, 512 ft elevation gain

  Time: 9:15 AM Orientation and Introductions. The hike begins at 9:30 AM

  EVENT:

  This hike will give participants an opportunity to visit two special parks, enjoy some moderate hiking with spectacular views of Los Angeles from the mountains to ocean, and gather back for lunch somewhere near Stoneview and the Culver Steps (location tbd).

  
  

  Our hike will begin with a walk around the habitat gardens as we learn about the Nature Center. 

  We will then hike up the hill to the State of California's Baldwin Hills Overlook Visitors Center to learn about the natural and cultural heritage of Los Angeles before heading down the hill to start on the main hiking trail, which is steep and winds up one mile from the park entrance at Jefferson Blvd. to the Scenic Overlook.

  
  

  
  

  The trail zig zags around a very steep and straight staircase which visitors can also access. The path is very pretty with grassland, native plants and trees, and cheerful birds to watch.

  CLICK HERE TO VIEW TRAIL MAP
  

  

  
  

  After we enjoy the views of Los Angeles at the top of the Overlook, we'll head back down to Stoneview where we can check out the other activities, have a bring-your-own picnic lunch or go to lunch nearby. (There are picnic tables and benches around the Nature Center.)

  Registration for up to 30 people.

  Free but must register in advance via the GOLA website.

  Carpool/ridesharing 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. If you would like a ride, or could provide a ride, members can sign up on your own at the link below. https://www.groupcarpool.com/t/7y3dfq

  THE LINK – BALDWIN HILLS PARKLANDS SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE transports park visitors from the Metro Expo La Cienega Station to Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area and the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. The Parklands Shuttle operates 8 am – 6:00 pm Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays. Rides are 25 cents one way. The shuttle is free for Seniors and children under 5. The shuttle has 3 routes with stops located at: La Cienega/Jefferson Metro bus stop adjacent to the Expo Station; Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook; and Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area. Shuttles run on a 20-minute route, are air-conditioned and ADA accessible. Route information
  

  Bring: Ten Essentials (click here),Drinking water in reusable bottle (1 to 2 liters recommended), sun protection, layered clothing and wear sturdy hiking footwear with a good tread. Carry your emergency contact info (ICE) with you at all times. Lunch. And, feel free to wear your Pride colors, flags, etc. 

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

  Hike Leader: John Butta

  Questions: Contact: John Butta (213) 200-7843 or j[email protected]

  If you need to cancel your registration, it is very important that you please contact John so that persons who may be on a wait list can be accommodated. Thank you.

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

  GREAT OUTDOORS, INC. is an all-volunteer not-for-profit organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.

  Show details
• CORP - Website Event Creating and Posting

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

  Register

  How to create events on GO WildApricot website.

  We will review setting up and managing events:

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

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

  Great Outdoors Event Manager Manual: Click Here
  

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

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

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

  
  

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

  • When
    Sun, March 22, 2026
  •  
    11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center
  • Spaces left
    29
  • Registered
    11 registrants

  Register

  
  

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

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

  Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center

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

  Meet at 11:00 AM in the parking lot

  Orientation & introductions at 11:00 AM

  Hike begins promptly at 11:15 AM

  Distance: 1.5–2 miles

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

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

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

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

  
  

  WHY THIS EVENT IS SPECIAL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  WHAT TO BRING

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

  CARPOOL / RIDESHARE

  Please carpool if possible — every little bit helps!

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

  [Carpool Link]

  Another Carpool Option (Long Beach Area):

  Participants interested in carpooling from Long Beach may meet at:

  Hot Java Coffeehouse

  2101 E. Broadway, Long Beach, CA 90803

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

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

  HIKE LEADERS:

  
  

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

  
  

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

  
  

  

  © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., 

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

  Show details
• LA- Beach Walk: Point Dume to Paradise Cove Café

  • When
    Sat, March 28, 2026
  •  
    11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
  • Location
    Westward Beach Parking Lot
  • Spaces left
    9
  • Registered
    16 registrants

  Register

  Point Dume to Paradise Cove Café

  When: March 28, 2026, 11:00 AM 

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

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

  When: March 28, 2026, 11:00 AM 
  

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

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

  Hiking Distance: ~5 miles total

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

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

  Brunch: Paradise Cove Café  Credit cards accepted.

  Wrap-up: 2-3PM

  Optional: Hang out on the beach afterward! ️

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

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

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

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

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

  Trip Leader: Russell Hammerl [email protected]

  
  

  Point Dume to the beach below these cliffs.

  
  

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

  
  

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

  
  

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

  
  

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

  
  

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

  Trip Leader: Russell Hammerl [email protected]

  
  

  © 1981 - 2026 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC.,

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

  Show details
• OCLB - TDOV Resource Fair - Long Beach Transgender Day Of Visibility

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

  Register

  

  TDOV Resource Fair 2026

  Transgender Day Of Visibility

  A GO-OCLB Community Outreach Event!

  
  

  WHEN?

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

  ABOUT Long Beach TDOV?

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

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

  
  

  What Is TDOV?

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

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

  What Could I Do To Help Out?

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

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

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

  Robert:  [email protected]

  Lance (President):  [email protected]

  Richard: (VPO):  [email protected]

  Show details
• CORP - Outdoors Experience - Hike Leader - Trip Leader

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

  Register

  

  OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE

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

  
  

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

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

  Some more great things about the training:

  
  

  •  The courses are free for those who complete their training.*  
  •  The information about emergency response could save your life.
  •  The discussion of leadership and people skills has applications beyond the hiking trail.
  •  The certification allows you to lead other day trips you may be interested in, such as bike rides or museum visits. (Anything that broadens our awareness of our environment is a valid outing.)

  * Money paid for personal copies of the training manuals will be refunded upon successful completion of the course.  

  The next Outdoor Experience Training is the second weekend in April at Joshua Tree RV & Campground in Joshua Tree, California just outside the West Entrance of the Joshua Tree National Park .  Participants can enjoy hiking, dining, and camping together around the full day of training in the campground's Clubhouse. The hike leader training is on a Saturday morning, and is followed by training on leading overnight trips.
  

  Friday April 10
  

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

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

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

  Saturday April 11 - Training class at the Clubhouse. 

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

  Sunday April 12 

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

  DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I

  Be a Hike Leader!  Not just someone who knows the way, but someone who applies safety, best practices, fun, and local knowledge to make a successful outing. In addition to the course outline we will discuss any issues with past hikes and plan for future hikes. We will review basic hike leader procedures and techniques and latest technology and information. Completing this course will provide participants with Day Hike Leader Certification.  This is also a good refresher for hike leaders.

  Hike Leader Syllabus

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

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

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

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

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

  Pre-Course Assignment: Review training manuals and video:

  Link to Training Resources:  click here

  

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

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

  TRIP LEADERSHIP - OVERNIGHT EVENTS - SECTION II 

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

  Course Outline:

  • Create a new trip or update a former trip.

  • Planning, scouting, securing reservations.

  • Finances and budget.

  • Create a trip description and promotion.

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

  • Communicate with participants to provide information and answer questions.

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

  Course Length/Hours: 4 hours.

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

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

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

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

  Overnight accommodations:

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

  Motels located nearby: Safari Motor Inn and Casa De Frank

  More information:

  • 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:
  

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

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

  HIKE LEADER REVIEW QUESTIONS with Page Ref 2022.08.05.pdf.

  TRIP LEADER REVIEW QUESTIONS with Page Ref 2022.08.05.pdf

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

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• OCLB- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Hawaii Big Island Day Hikes

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

  Register

  OCLB- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park &

  Hawaii Big Island Day Hikes

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

  

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

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

  Registration: Limited to Great Outdoors members

  Day Hike: Tue. Apr. 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 [email protected]

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

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• CORP- All Chapter Jamboree - Save the Date!

  • Start
    Thu, May 28, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, May 31, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    Hurkey Creek Campground
  • Spaces left

  
  

  ALLCHAPTER JAMBOREE

  SAVE THE DATE

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

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• LA - Camping: Mammoth Lakes/ Owens Valley

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

  REGISTRATION IS NOT YET OPEN
  

  
  

  Save The Dates!

  Mammoth Lakes/ Owen's Valley Camping

  Start:  Fri June 12, 2026, 2 PM

  End:  Mon, June 15, 2026, 12:00 PM

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

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

  Please check back here for updates or contact trip leaders:

  Joe Holliday [email protected] or

  John Blasco at [email protected]

  
  

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

  
  

  Show details
• SBVC - Duck Creek Campout - SAVE THE DATE

  • Start
    Wed, August 19, 2026
  • End
    Sun, August 23, 2026
  • Location
    Duck Creek, UT
  • Spaces left
    24

  SAVE THE DATE. This trip is now scheduled from August 19-23, 2026

  Please stay tuned for updated trip details and information and be ready for when registration opens. Thanks!

  
  

  We have postponed this event until August 2026, stay tuned and reach out with your interest if you'd like to be involved! 

  Ready for an Escape? Let’s Head to Southern Utah!

  
  

  Tired of the daily grind? Then it’s time to trade traffic for towering trees and spreadsheets for starry skies! Join your Great Outdoors friends on a five-day, four-night camping adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Utah! 

  We’ll be setting up camp at Duck Creek Campground, a peaceful hideaway nestled in the Dixie National Forest near Cedar City—just 450 miles east of LA. You’ll be surrounded by groves of aspen and Douglas fir, with ancient ponderosa pines (some over 500 years old!) standing tall all around you. 

  There are hiking trails right from camp,Duck Creek Pond and Navajo lake nearby if you feel like casting a line, renting a boat or just kicking back. One day, we’ll hit the trails at Cedar Breaks National Monument—a jaw-dropping natural amphitheater—on a scenic hike along the South Rim Trail (note: there’s a $15–$25 fee per vehicle to enter). We’ll also explore the Mammoth Lava Caves, a wild formation from Utah’s volcanic past. 

  And if that’s not enough? Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are just about an hour away. If you forget something or need supplies, Duck Creek Village is just down the road with shops, firewood, and a few local eats. 

  So….Let’s get outside, breathe in that mountain air, and make some memories! 

  Details: 

  We have reserved campsites 31,33,34(Loop A) 

  We are allowed one vehicle per site, however there is overflow parking which is about ¼ mile away at the visitor’s center.We may be able to park a few more vehicles at the campsite but that will be figured out when you get 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:$ per person, 5 days and 4 nights. 

  Registration by credit card only 

  Each camp site is allowed one vehicle per site, (we probably can squeeze a few more in) but overflow parking is available at the visitor’s center, and carpooling is highly encouraged to limit the number of vehicles.  Let the trip leader know if you have room to share in your vehicle. 

  Itinerary: 

  Wednesday Aug. ^19th: Arrival AFTER 2pm. Meet and Greet tea and other yummies! Feel free to share your favorite finger food and/or beverage if you so desire, GO will be providing drinks and snacks as well.  BYOB. Dinner on your own. Campfire gathering 

  Thursday Aug. ^20th: Breakfast on your own. Explore local trails around the area, TBD at the site. Lunch on your own, more exploring, Potluck dinner!  Prepare your favorite dish for 4 to 6 people.  Campfire gathering 

  Friday Aug ^21th:Breakfast on your own then drive to Cedar Breaks National Monument (carpooling to be figured out) Pack a lunch. Taking the5-mile South Rim trail which offers spectacular views, a moderately strenuous hike but well worth it!Have plenty of water, comfortable hiking shoes and sunscreen! Dinner at a nearby restaurant. (Paesano’s Pizzeria or Aunt Sues Chalet) Return for our Campfire gathering. 

  Saturday Aug ^22th:Breakfast on your own, visit Navajo Lake, maybe rent a boat or walk around the lake, more exploring TBD. Have lunch in Duck Creek Village. Dinner on your own, relax, take in the beauty, campfire gathering. 

  Sunday Aug ^23th: Our last day!  Breakfast on your own, pack up and head out and prepare for your next GO adventure! 

  Note: This itinerary is subject to change as weather, moods and circumstances permit! 

  Refund Policy: Cancel on or before August 4th you will receive a refund minus a $15 processing fee.Sorry but no refunds will be issued after that date. 

  Contact the trip leader if you need to cancel. 

  

  This event is limited to GO members only.  When you register, you’ll need to have your credit card ready and pay your registration fee within 15 minutes.  If you’re not a member, you can first join as a member online and then return to register for the event.  We’d love to have you join!! 

  Dogs are allowed if they are on a leash. 

  Weather this time of year is usually pleasantly warm and breezy (low 80’s high 70’s) Very slight chance of rain but it has been known that an occasional thunderstorm can pass through now and again, so be prepared! 

  Bring your 10 essentials, camping and cooking gear, food and a bundle or two or three of firewood. (We can always go down the road to buy more) 

  Sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat and comfortable hiking shoes highly recommended! 

  Additional e-mails will be sent out with more details, changes and other pertinent info as the date of the trip nears. 

  
  Your Trip Leader, Brian Miller: Duck Creek, UT (circa 1963)
  [email protected] 

   

   

  
  

  Show details
• SBVC/CORP - 48th All Chapter Conference and Campout - SAVE THE DATE

  • Start
    Fri, October 16, 2026
  • End
    Sun, October 18, 2026
  • Location
    TBA

  *** SAVE THE DATE ***

  Hello GO!

  Please make sure that you mark your calendars for the
  48th All Chapter Conference and Campout
  Hosted by GO-SBVC

  Dates
  Friday, October 16 thru Sunday, October 18, 2026
  Location
  TBA

  
  

  Show details