Upcoming Outings

  • SD - Pickleball on Coronado

    • Sun, December 28, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Coronado Marriott Wellness Center
    • 6 registrants
    Register

    San Diego Outdoor Pickleball!


    Join Us for Pickleball on Coronado!

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

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

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

    How to RSVP

    1. Register here through the GOSD event page.

    2. Download the “Swish Sports” app. (Brent will send you the group link – see below.)

    3. Email Brent Sammons at [email protected] to get a link to join the Swish App group, “Rainbow Picklers”.

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

    We hope to see you on the courts!

    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

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  • PS - Hike: Toutain Canyon and Waterfall

    • Mon, December 29, 2025
    • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Whitewater Preserve
    Register

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

    • Distance:  2.5 mi
    • Elevation Gain/Loss:  400 ft
    • Difficulty Rating:  Moderately 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 click 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, before the bridge that crosses the Whitewater River.

    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.

    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 link.

    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. 

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  • PS - HIKE LOWER CARRIZO CANYON

    • Tue, December 30, 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Carrizo Canyon
    Join waitlist


    Carrizo Canyon is one of the group of canyons which are open for only the last three months of each year. This  hike begins at the Art Smith parking lot and gradually climbs south through soft sand in a wide wash with evidence of a history of mining, exploration and recreational use over many decades. The wash narrows as we enter the canyon where we are amazed at the stunning folding and layering of metamorphic rock in the canyon walls. As the canyon narrows, the trail gets a bit rockier and poles can be handy for maintaining one’s balance. We will carefully scramble over a few granite boulders. After a visit to a dry waterfall, we will take a side trail up Indian Canyon and up a 5 foot rock ladder to an overlook from which you can see back to Palm Desert and up Carrizo Canyon to a stand of California palms at an oasis hidden above the dry fall. We retrace our steps to return to the parking lot.

    • Map here: https://caltopo.com/m/U4Q7J
    • Altitude gain: 364 feet  (1044′ to 1408′) 
    • Cumulative altitude gain: 503 feet
    • Distance: 2.3 miles
    • Pace: 1-1.5 MPH, ~2 hours
    • Terrain: Slightly varied, deep sand, short climb, some slick rock
    • Obstacles: Rocks, boulders, plant debris
    • Difficulty rating:  Easy to Moderate
    • Meet 8:50 am Denny's Cathedral City  Map Click Here

    Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 1.5 liters recommended), trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing. Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are essential

    Contact Hike Leaders: Howard K. email and Joey D. email

    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 9 AM. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.

    Additional Photos Click Here



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


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  • SBVC - Hike: PRE-NEW YEAR'S DAY HIKE: BOB JONES TRAIL - CITY TO SEA

    • Tue, December 30, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • 7009 Ontario Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
    • 8
    Register

    PRE-NEW YEAR'S DAY WALK/HIKE: BOB JONES TRAIL

    Walk along this paved, shady trail along San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach. The group will meet up at the parking lot. It is approximately 5 miles out and back, relatively flat with 108 ft elevation gain (AllTrails, 2025). The smooth paved pathway makes it accessible for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, bikes, and strollers. There are benches along the trail, perfect for taking a break as well as for bird-watching or people-watching. Sycamore and oak trees are plentiful along the trail. We will pass by the Secret Garden Cafe at Sycamore Resort and Spa, as well as Woodstone Marketplace at San Luis Bay Estates, for your beverage or snack needs. Part of the trail passes through a bridge within the Avila Beach Golf Course, where one can see golfers make a slice while the ducks enjoy the watery scene. The turning point of this walk will be the end of Avila Beach Park overlooking the ocean, and a short walk to the promenade and the pier. (Optional: walk along the promenade [store front] and the pier for mileage). Public restrooms are available at the parking lot and at the turning point by the beach. Don’t forget your “Walking Essentials” and hydration packs!

    "I would like to acknowledge that these are the traditional lands of the Chumash people who lived in this area, and I would like to express my gratitude for their stewardship of the land." 

    WHEN: DEC 30th @ 10 AM.

    WHERE TO PARK: Bob Jones Trail, 7009 Ontario Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Google Map: 7009 Ontario Rd Parking).



    QUESTIONS/CONCERNS/COMMENTS: Text the North County Day-Hike Leader, Gener, at (805) 709-5379.


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  • PS - T-Shirt Sales

    • Wed, December 31, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
    • online
    • 11
    Register

    WANT A GOPS CLUB T-SHIRT?  

    NOW'S YOUR CHANCE TO PLACE YOUR ORDER! 

    There are a few remaining Palm Springs T-Shirts available for purchase! We are selling seven Aqua Short Sleeve (Large) and seven Denim Blue Long Sleeve Tri-Blend T-shirts (Large).  Registration closes when we sell out or on December  31 at the latest.  Order yours today!

          

    Short and Long Sleeve T-Shirts

    • Short Sleeve Tri-blend Tees (which are moisture-wicking and stretch), are made of 50/25/25 polyester/Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton/rayon and includes a GOPS logo silk-screened on the front left side only. There is no printing on the back.  The remaining Short Sleeve T-shirts are available only in Aqua and size Large.  Multiple orders may require an additional registration. The Short Sleeve shirts can be ordered for $18 each.
    • Long Sleeve Tri-blend Tees (which are moisture-wicking and stretch), are made of 50/25/25 polyester/Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton/rayon and includes a GOPS logo silk-screened on the front left side only. There is no printing on the back.  The remaining Long Sleeve T-Shirts are available in only in Denim (blue) color and size Large.  Multiple orders may require an additional registration.  The Long Sleeve shirts can be ordered for $22 each.

    PAYMENT:

    We are taking payments online only. After you submit an order, you'll be taken to an online payment screen. You can pay with your credit card. When you place your order, you'll need to have your credit card ready and pay for your order within 15 minutes before  it times out and you will need to start over. No refunds are available.  

    PICKUP OR DELIVERY:

    T-shirts will be available for pickup or delivery.  We expect the GOPS merchandise will be available for pickup or delivery in November and December.  We'll set up a location, date and time to pick up your orders and inform you by email. For any items not picked up, we will schedule another time and place for a 2nd round of pickups via email.  If you are unable to pick up your merchandise and want it mailed to you (we use USPS Priority Mail) then shipping fees will apply and are due at the time the order is placed. Out-of-State orders or orders for more than 4 items may be charged additional shipping fees.

    If you have any questions, please email David McFadden at David.


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  • PS - Bike: New Year's Day Bike Ride-- FKA Christmas Day Bike Ride

    • Thu, January 01, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Palm Springs, CA
    Register

    The Christmas Day Bike Ride has  Been Rescheduled to New Year's Day

    This Christmas Morning bike ride, now New Year's Day bike ride, will follow neighborhood streets in North Palm Springs, some with designated bike lanes, the CV Link from the N Sunrise terminus extension to Gene Autry/Vista Chino and on to Ramon, The Dinah Bridge and Demuth Park.

    CV Link and bike lanes will take us north through the airport industrial area on the return to Ruth Hardy Park.

    Bathrooms are available at Ruth Hardy Park, Victoria Park and Demuth Park.

    Meet Location:  Ruth Hardy Park Tennis Court Parking Lot along Via Miraleste. (Map click here)

    What to Bring:  Water (2-3 liters recommended), snacks, sun protection, and layered clothing.  Carry emergency contact information.  All riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmets.  Remember to inflate your tires to the recommended PSI.  You may want to bring a tire pump, spare tube, and bike tools.

    Don't forget when checking your tires to re-adjust your seat height in order to get your best leg extension while riding.

    You should consider yourself a confident street cyclist in order to enjoy this PS Loop bike ride.

    Event Leader Bill B. email click here

    If you cannot make an event 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 event 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 event.

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  • SD - Social - Guided Star Gazing for Quadrantid Meteor Shower @ Mission Trails

    • Fri, January 02, 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • 2 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego, CA 92119
    • 8 registrants
    Register

    Guided Star Gazing for

    Quadrantid Meteor Shower

    Friday January 2nd, 2026 @ Mission Trails Kumeyaay Campground

    STARGAZING AT MISSION TRAILS MARCH 4 | East County Magazine

    The first weekend of January features the peak of the Quadrantid meteor shower, one of the year's best displays, known for bright fireballs and a short, intense peak around January 3-4. Best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere.

    Join members from the San Diego Astronomy Association at the far end of the Kumeyaay Lake Campground’s Day Use Parking Lot to view the nighttime sky through telescopes. 

    Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Rain or cloudy skies cancel event.

    Parking Information: Parking Lot

    Costs involved: Free

    Pets Permitted: Pets welcome!

    Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden @ 651.497.1611


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

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  • LA- Hike: Stunt High Trail to Saddle Peak

    • Sat, January 03, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM
    • Stunt High Trail
    • 15
    • 10 registrants
    Register


    LA- Hike: Stunt High Trail to Saddle Peak- Calabasas

    Date: ​January 3, 2025

    Time: ​10:00 AM- 2:30 PM

    Distance: ​8 miles round trip

    Elevation gain:​ 1677’

    Difficulty: ​Moderate to Difficult



    What to Bring: Good hiking boots/shoes with good tread, hiking pole, lunch, snacks, plenty of water, sun protection, jacket.

    Hike Leader: Russell Hammerl, [email protected]

    Directions: From 101 -Mulholland HWY -Stunt Road, 1.0 mile -shortly past pedestrian crossing sign -park and gather at the pullout on the right. (Map click here)

    What to Bring: Good hiking boots/shoes with good tread, hiking pole, lunch, snacks, plenty of water, sun protection, layered clothing. Carry emergency contact information.

    Carpool: http://www.groupcarpool.com/t/vp5ui4

    After the hike: Late lunch or coffee at nearby restaurant depending on interest of participants.

    Restroom: A single portable is located 30 feet from the trailhead.

    Rain Cancels: 

    Let's start the new year with a fabulous hike! This trail is one of the treasures of the Santa Monica Mountains. Stunt High Trail begins with a pleasant shaded walk next to Cold Creek. Along the way we will pass through five distinct plant communities: riparian, oak woodland, coastal sage, chaparral, and grassland.

    There is a terrific payoff at the end of a steady climb in the way of panoramic views and dramatic sandstone formations at the top of Saddle Peak. This is the sixth tallest summit in the Santa Monica Mountain range at 2805 feet. The views go from downtown LA to Santa Barbara Island to the snowcapped peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains and the entire Santa Monica Bay. Near the top is an interesting passage along the sandstone cliffs. Rock climbers are often seen precariously above the trail.

    The hike is a bit of a challenge, but we’ll take our time to enjoy the views, plants, and geology. 


    Much of the trail has a canopy of trees and shrubs. It is a great hike.

    Hike Leadrer: Russell Hammerl



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  • SD - Social - Fiesta Island Dog Social

    • Sat, January 03, 2026
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Fiesta Island Dog Park
    • 5 registrants
    Register

    Fiesta Island Dog Park & Inland Hike


    Fiesta Island, a spacious peninsula within Mission Bay, is known for its expansive ocean views, open landscape, and relaxed coastal vibe. It features one of the largest off-leash dog parks in San Diego and regularly hosts charity walks, bicycle races, time trials, and special events like the annual over-the-line tournament. In the evenings, visitors often stay to watch the dazzling SeaWorld fireworks, which reflect off the bay and can be seen from across the island. Despite its popularity, Fiesta Island supports a surprising number of rare, threatened, and endangered bird and plant species, making it both a recreational and ecological landmark. It's also a key site during the San Diego Bayfair Cup, a premier hydroplane boat race on the H1 Unlimited circuit.

    We'll start our hike near the restrooms on the west side of Fiesta Island, entering through the gate and passing the benches as we make our way toward the western shoreline. This area is a popular launch point for jet skis and water skiing. From there, we'll continue south along the edge of the island, where you'll get a great view of the SeaWorld tower in the distance. It’s a perfect spot for photos, which we can share later on the Great Outdoors Facebook group.

    After enjoying the view, we'll head inland and follow the path looping back toward the entrance. A smaller trail on the opposite side of the road leads through a quiet park area with benches—an ideal place to rest and take in the scenery before making our way back.


    Start Time and Location: 3pm Fiesta Island Dog Park (see map below)

    Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): sand, bodies of water, wildlife, dogs

    Parking Information: free parking near park entrance

    Costs involved: none

    Pets Permitted: obviously! 

    What to Bring: Your dog or love of dogs

    Who to Contact with Questions: Trip leader Jeremiah O'Neal [email protected] 619-788-9407



    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.

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  • PS - Hike Tram: Hidden Divide or Long Valley

    • Sun, January 04, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Mt San Jacinto State Park
    Join waitlist

    Winter has arrived and I've been snow and ice hiking on the mountain this December. Depending on the weather, this hike will be snow hiking in Long Valley (very tiring, 1.5 mi.) or light-snow/ice hiking along Willow Creek trail to Hidden Divide (see below).

    Snow hiking will require snow boots or gaiters, and heavy pants or rain pants. It is also likely that crampons will be needed. They are certainly needed for any ice hiking. You can buy them at an outdoor store like REI, and they can be found on Amazon. I have the ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons and they work well.

    If the snow is too deep or the weather is threatening, then this hike will be cancelled.

    Willow Creek trail to Hidden Divide

    This is a hike for strong hikers. We will take the Tram up and enter the wilderness and head up the Willow Creek trail for almost 1.75 miles to Hidden Divide overlook, and return the same way -- 3.5 miles total.

    You should have hiked at elevation before (Idyllwild, Big Bear, Mt San Jacinto) and are comfortable with wet conditions.

    Meeting Time/Location:  Arrive at the Tram base station at 7:40 AM in order to buy your ticket. Get a ticket for the 8:00am car (first). You can buy these online during the fall/winter season. The cost is $32-$35. You can also use a pass. If anyone is not able to board due to limits on pass holders, the others will wait at the Mountain Station. If you have questions about this, email me. Also, those who are not local residents will have to pay for parking.

    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.  

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

    Contact hike leader:  Joey D. email 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.

    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. 


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


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  • SBVC - Hike: POST- NEW YEAR HIKE: PISMO PRESERVE

    • Sun, January 04, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • 80 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
    • 7
    • 3 registrants
    Register

    POST- NEW YEAR HIKE: PISMO PRESERVE


    HIKE INFO: The Discovery Trail in Pismo Preserve is located in Pismo Beach, CA. This trail is 5.4 miles long with 672 feet of elevation gain. It is considered moderate in difficulty (AllTrails, 2025), which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours round-trip. This is a scenic trail with well-maintained, marked paths. Cows, deer, bunnies, and other wildlife can be observed along this trail. There are some oak woodlands, but mostly chaparral. It is a counter-clockwise loop, but ends and starts practically in the same area. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. Public restrooms are available at the main parking lot. Don’t forget your “Walking Essentials” and hydration packs!

    "I would like to acknowledge that these are the traditional lands of the Chumash people who lived in this area, and I would like to express my gratitude for their stewardship of the land." 




    WHEN: JAN 4, 2026 @ 10 AM

    WHERE to PARK: Pismo Preserve: 80 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449. The main parking lot off Mattie Road is now charging $5 to park, while as of mid-December 2025, the Overflow Parking on Price Street remains free. This could change any day, so prepare $5 to pay for parking (just in case). NO street parking on Mattie Road or the private Foothill Road. The meeting place will be by the restroom on the southeast corner of the main parking lot. 

    QUESTIONS/CONCERNS/COMMENTS: Text the North County Day-Hike Leader, Gener, at (805) 709-5379.


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  • PS - Hike: Rescheduled from January 6 - Hike Indian Canyons: Palm and Andreas Canyons

    • Mon, January 05, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Indian Canyons 38500 S Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs CA
    Join waitlist

    Palm Canyon/Victor and Andreas Canyon Trails

    Indian Canyons includes some of the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla (pronounced Kaw-we-ah) Indians.  This leisurely hike will be through scenic areas of colorful, rocky canyons and unmatched palm groves.

    1. Palm Canyon.  We will begin with a moderate hike on the Palm Canyon Trail through the world’s largest Washingtonia palm grove and then up and above the canyon looping back on the Victor Trail with views of the canyon and South Palm Springs.

    2. Trading Post.  Lunch break will be at the Trading Post with snacks and refreshments, art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, weavings, and a short walk on the West Fork waterfall trail.

    3. Andreas Canyon.  Next we will drive down to the Andreas Canyon loop hike with remnants of Cahuilla settlements, the world’s second largest grove of Washingtonia palms, a babbling brook and views of a hidden private club.

    • Meet Location:  Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot. MAP 
    • Meet Time: 9:00 am 
    • Trail Length: 2.7 miles Palm Canyon/Victor trails loop; 1.0 mile Andreas Canyon loop. 
    • Total Elevation Gain: 393 ft in the 2.7-mile Palm Canyon/Victor Trail loop. 173 ft in the 1.0-mile Andreas Canyon loop.
    • Difficulty Rating: Easy/Moderate  (gradual ascent/descent, mostly easy but with some moderate sections). (approx. 3.5 hr. duration)
    • Type: Well-trodden and marked trails.
    • Bring Ten Essentials (email click here), water (2 liters recommended), lunch and snacks. Hat, sunscreen and layered clothing are recommended.
    • Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).
    • Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

    Co-leaders Bill B:  email click here and Pat M.: email click here

    Each participant must pay the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation entry fee ($12 per person, $7 for seniors 62+, Free military/first responder) at the Indian Canyons tollgate, just past the south end of South Palm Canyon Drive.

    For speed and ease of entry participants are encouraged to pay online, print out the confirmation and hand it to the gate agent. Or, pay at the gate.  See “Purchase Tickets” https://www.indian-canyons.com/hours

    Drivers should proceed to the Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot at the far end of the canyon road.  Carpooling is encouraged because cars may be lined up at the tollgate and parking can be limited. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels 

    Web: https://www.indian-canyons.com/indian_canyons


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

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  • PS - Hike: Rescheduled to January 5 - Hike Indian Canyons: Palm and Andreas Canyons

    • Tue, January 06, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Indian Canyons 38500 S Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs CA

    Palm Canyon/Victor and Andreas Canyon Trails

    Indian Canyons includes some of the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla (pronounced Kaw-we-ah) Indians.  This leisurely hike will be through scenic areas of colorful, rocky canyons and unmatched palm groves.

    1. Palm Canyon.  We will begin with a moderate hike on the Palm Canyon Trail through the world’s largest Washingtonia palm grove and then up and above the canyon looping back on the Victor Trail with views of the canyon and South Palm Springs.

    2. Trading Post.  Lunch break will be at the Trading Post with snacks and refreshments, art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, weavings, and a short walk on the West Fork waterfall trail.

    3. Andreas Canyon.  Next we will drive down to the Andreas Canyon loop hike with remnants of Cahuilla settlements, the world’s second largest grove of Washingtonia palms, a babbling brook and views of a hidden private club.

    • Meet Location:  Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot. MAP 
    • Meet Time: 9:00 am 
    • Trail Length: 2.7 miles Palm Canyon/Victor trails loop; 1.0 mile Andreas Canyon loop. 
    • Total Elevation Gain: 393 ft in the 2.7-mile Palm Canyon/Victor Trail loop. 173 ft in the 1.0-mile Andreas Canyon loop.
    • Difficulty Rating: Easy/Moderate  (gradual ascent/descent, mostly easy but with some moderate sections). (approx. 3.5 hr. duration)
    • Type: Well-trodden and marked trails.
    • Bring Ten Essentials (email click here), water (2 liters recommended), lunch and snacks. Hat, sunscreen and layered clothing are recommended.
    • Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).
    • Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

    Co-leaders Bill B:  email click here and Pat M.: email click here

    Each participant must pay the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation entry fee ($12 per person, $7 for seniors 62+, Free military/first responder) at the Indian Canyons tollgate, just past the south end of South Palm Canyon Drive.

    For speed and ease of entry participants are encouraged to pay online, print out the confirmation and hand it to the gate agent. Or, pay at the gate.  See “Purchase Tickets” https://www.indian-canyons.com/hours

    Drivers should proceed to the Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot at the far end of the canyon road.  Carpooling is encouraged because cars may be lined up at the tollgate and parking can be limited. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. 

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels 

    Web: https://www.indian-canyons.com/indian_canyons


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

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  • PS - Camp - Agua Caliente County Park

    • Thu, January 08, 2026
    • 2:00 PM
    • Sun, January 11, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Agua Caliente County Park Campground
    Register

    Camp and Soak

    Agua Caliente County Park

    JANUARY 8-11, 2026

    Discover the beauty of Agua Caliente County Park, one of San Diego County’s desert gems. This 910-acre park, set within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, has a long history—once home to indigenous peoples and later a stagecoach stop and health resort in the 19th century.

    Today, visitors can enjoy camping and RV sites, scenic hiking trails, and three naturally heated geothermal pools. The park is a true desert oasis, complete with a historic ranch house and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature exploration.

    Other amenities include the coin-operated pay showers (50 cents in quarters per 4 minutes), flush toilets, potable water, and shuffleboard and horseshoes. There is a small souvenir store nearby with very limited groceries, ice, and firewood.

    We have reserved sites in the section with full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer. Cost reflects those accommodations. 2 tents can be supported on one site, but be aware that there is no shade in this area. The campground is on Agua Caliente Springs Rd, off of the Great Southern Overland Stage Route (highway S2) map here 

    Schedule

    Thursday Jan 8th

    • 2pm Check in
    • 5pm Meet n Greet (communal site #89)

    Friday Jan 9th

    • 7am Coffee with bagels and pastries (site #89), please bring your own coffee creamers and sugars
    • 9am hike from camp
    • pm hike or soak
    • 6pm dinner
    • 7pm campfire

    Saturday Jan 10th

    • 7am Coffee with bagels and pastries, please bring your own coffee creamers and sugars
    • 9am Drive to Dos Cabezas train station (4x4) and hike on track ~3mi.
    • pm hike or soak
    • 6pm dinner
    • 7pm campfire

    Sunday Jan 11th

    • 7am Coffee, please bring your own coffee creamers and sugars
    • 12pm check out time


    Some ideas for activities

    Off-road to hike, Dos Cabezas station and train track through old tunnels, story here and map here.

    Hike to Bailey's Cabin on AllTrails 2.7mi; hike to Rainbow Canyon on AllTrails 4.9 mi; both near Vallecito County Park. From the campground there is Moonlight Canyon trail details here

    Ocotillo is located where S2 hits the I-8 and has a gas station and a decent outdoor-seating restaurant.


    TRIP LEADERS: Cliff C email here and Joey D email here

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

    NOTE that the nearest towns are Julian, 35 miles to the North (several food choices and food), and Ocotillo 27 miles to the South (very little other than a gas station).

    Campground Rules and Regulations

    A complete listing of campground rules and regulations may be found here:

    http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2017_Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL.pdf

    Here are some of the more common rules:

    Dogs must be restrained on a leash not longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Dogs are not allowed on trails. There may be a $1/day fee per dog, payable at the park.

    Quiet Hours- 10 PM - 8 AM

    Campfires – Completely Extinguished by 11 PM

    Smoking- Is not allowed in Agua Caliente County Park.

    Alcohol - Alcoholic beverages are permitted provided the alcohol content does not exceed 20%.

    Cell Phone Service Is not available in the park, but can be found by driving a mile or 2 from the campground.

    Cancellations: Any cancellation for refund must be received by December 31, 2025, and will be charged a $10 fee. Write the trip leaders to cancel.

    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.

    For full Agua Caliente County Park information - View the Agua Caliente County Park brochure or map at the following links:

    http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/AguaCalienteBrochure.pdf

    http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2016%20Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL_9_13_16.pdf

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  • SD - Hikes (2) - Fonts Point/Calcite Mine Combined Hikes

    • Sat, January 10, 2026
    • 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Anza Borrego State Park, GPS Location: 33.30344,-116.23898
    • 14 registrants
    Register

    Great Outdoors - San Diego

    Fonts Point/Calcite Mine Combined Hikes

    Saturday, January 10, 2026, 10:30 am

    A landscape of a desert AI-generated content may be incorrect.

    Please find the descriptions for the two hikes below:

    First Hike: We will hike 1 mile round Trip on the trail that runs along the edge of the cliffs of Fonts Point and will marvel and the breath-taking badlands.  

    Second Hike: We then will drive in a caravan to the Calcite Mine Trail trailhead and will hike 4.5 miles to the historic calcite mine. On the way, we will take a brief side trip through a gorgeous narrow slot canyon. Going back, we will pass through a wide, deep impressive canyon. The trips through the canyons can be a little challenging, but if someone cannot climb over the rocks of the canyons, they can wait for us to come back to the main road. Font’s Point hike involves very little elevation gain, but the Calcite mine has an 800feet in elevation change. 

    Meeting Location: Font’s point turn off and parking 10.3 miles east of Borrego Springs Christmas Circle .3 miles east of S-22 Mile marker 29. GPS 33.30344,-116.23898

    Meeting Date & Time:  Saturday, January 10, 2025 10:30am. Normally, the spectacular drive from Hillcrest is 2 hours, so please leave by 8am, so you can take photos along the way. 

    A large rock formation in the desert AI-generated content may be incorrect.A rock canyon with a cat walking in it with Ein Avdat in the background AI-generated content may be incorrect.

    Details: Fonts Point is considered to have the most spectacular views in Anza Borrego. The Calcite mine has great views, an interesting history, (calcite is a mineral so clear and hard, it was used as gun-sites in WW II), and an Amazing slot canyon to squeeze through and a wide deep canyon to marvel and explore.

    Note: Font’s Point is at the end of a 4-mile dirt road off of highway S22, 10 miles east of Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs.  I have traveled on this road in my Prius and my Bolt, but if the dirt road scares you, leave your car at the parking area off of S22 where we are all meeting, and carpool with me or other brave drivers. If you don’t want to hike Calcite Mine, but you have a jeep, you can drive to the Mine with a 4x4 on the jeep trail.

    Host: Bill Stanhope at 619-306-2378

    Trail: Font's Point: Anza Borrego State Park's Best View - California Through My Lens                 1-mile round trip                                                                                                                                  Calcite Mine Trail, California - 553 Reviews, Map | AllTrails  4 miles round trip

    Length: ~5 miles combined both hikes

    Difficulty: both hikes are easy unless you go to the canyons, then moderate.

    Elevation Gain: ~20 feet at Fonts Point, 800 feet at the Calcite Mine

    RSVP: Please RSVP, or if running late, please call Bill at 619-306-2378

    Parking: ample parking is available at the font’s point intersection. Or if you are brave enough or have a jeep, please drive and take others. 

    Cost: there is no charge.  Please bring your lunch.

    Time Commitment: Plan for approx 5-6 hours 

    Dogs: Not allowed.

    Cell Phone Service: No reception issues anticipated.

    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 leaders: Bill Stanhope ([email protected])

    What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*:

    • Food
    • Ten Essentials
    • Phone/camera 
    • Warm/cool weather clothing depending on forcast
    • Any prescription or other needed medications
    • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)

    *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.

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  • SD - Urban Hike/Social - San Diego Zoo

    • Sun, January 11, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
    • 7 registrants
    Register

    SAN DIEGO ZOO HIKE/SOCIAL

    Join us at the zoo!. This year we will be hiking through the famous San Diego Zoo on Sunday, January 11th @ 10:00am. We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance. Tickets/membership should be purchased prior to the event. If this is an event you would like to participate in but cannot access it due to finances, please reach out to KJ Archer at [email protected]

    San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Ticket, No Reservations Required! 2022

    Details: We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance

    Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

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

    Meeting Location: 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA

    92101 https://maps.app.goo.gl/brG2rRmm333248LC9

    Meeting Date & Time: Sunday January 11th @ 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  



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  • PS - Hike: Oswit Canyon

    • Mon, January 12, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Palm Springs
    Register

    Explore one of our best natural areas that is home to a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. Experience mountain & canyon views with Palm Springs in the distance.  The turnaround point features a waterfall at a Palm Oasis.

    • Start time:  8:00 a.m.
    • Distance:  4 miles out and back
    • Difficulty:  Moderately Strenuous
    • Elevation:  900 ft.
    • Terrain:  Dirt and rocks - much of the hike is on unmaintained use trail with some bouldering requiring good balance and coordination; MUST be in good physical condition to attend.
    • Duration:  3.5 hours 
    • No dogs permitted due to Bighorn Sheep habitat.

    Location/directions:  Ample parking along the west side of South Palm Canyon Dr. near the bridge by the South Lykken trailhead.  Map to trailhead parking.

    Contact Hike Leader:  Kirk O. email click here

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

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

    Inclement weather may cancel.

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

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


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  • PS - Social: "Comedy Riot" Stand-Up Comedy Competition at Revolution Stage Company

    • Mon, January 12, 2026
    • 7:00 PM
    • 611 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Suite 16, Palm Springs, CA 92284
    Register

    Join your GOPS friends at Comedy Riot, a Stand-Up Comedy Competition at Revolution Stage Company.  Support our member Brock Bennett as he competes to be crowned the funniest person in Palm Springs.

    If Brock makes the cut we'll be back to support him in the Semi-Fiinals on Jan. 26 and the Finals on Feb. 2.  If any other GOPS members are competing please tell [email protected] so we know to support you too!

    Purchase tickets here.  (Registration with GOPS does not buy you a ticket.)

    Comedy Riot 

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  • SD - Urban Walk - Front Runners Meet Up

    • Tue, January 13, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • SE Corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street, San Diego CA
    • 1 registrant
    Register

    San Diego Urban Walk with Frontrunners

    Tuesday 1/13 at 6pm sharp *Check website for location. 

    Multiple walk/run options will be announced at the beginning of this event at 6PM. Walking through Balboa Park past the bridge, running University, and running around Air & Space, and then to University. For this event, I will be walking. However, you may decide on any of the options when you get there. Make sure that you bring a map. Maps are posted below. See Trail.

    The meetup is in the blue square. The red arrows show what direction walkers and runners will be heading after the group photo. PLEASE DO NOT START WALKING/RUNNING UNTIL AFTER THE GROUP PHOTO!!!

    Front Runners & Walkers is San Diego’s LGBTQ+ running club. This group currently meet weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays to walk and run in Balboa Park at 6th Avenue and Laurel Street (frwsd.org/)

    For this event, I will be walking with Frontrunners through Balboa Park and then back. At upcoming events, I jog Air & Space. My average/continuous running speed is 5.2mi (and 2.2mi above my average at the beginning) in 55min non-stop. I’ve been running with this group for about a month after 2025 Pride. I’m doing it for my health.


    Host: Jeremiah O’Neal

    Trail: https://frwsd.org/schedule/#routes-distance (Click Routes)

    Length: up to 5.5 miles (Air & Space) (See Frontrunners website for all routes)

    Difficulty: Easy (walking) to Difficult (running)

    Elevation Gain: up to 30 to 200 feet, depending on the route taken

    RSVP: Please visit https://frwsd.org/ and familiarize yourself with the information on the website, including the times and routes, before joining. Registration is not required since we’re joining as a guests with the Front Runners group. The group meets in a circle. You’ll want to mention that you’re joining as Jeremiah’s guest and briefly discuss yourself, such as your favorite walks around Mission Bay, etc. You can then say that you would like to walk. Or if you wish to run, you can do University/Air & Space. It is a very difficult run for beginners, but easy after your 2nd or 3rd time running it, and a lot of fun.

    Meeting Location: https://frwsd.org/schedule/#general-meet-up-schedule Click General Meet up Schedule

    Meeting Date & Time: Tues @ 6pm  *Check website for location.

    Parking: It is currently free to park in Balboa Park, nearby to our meeting spot next to the Information Center Booth

    Cost: Absolutely free. 

    Time Commitment: Plan for 1.5 hours (1hr when we start walking or running). Please do not leave early and meet back at the starting location before 1hr after the run. 

    Dogs: Follow Balboa Park rules if you decide to bring a pet. Most frontrunners do bring pets on Saturday.

    Trail Details:  Sidewalks, stairs, parking lots, congested areas, restrooms along Air & Space route, grass. Note, all of the bathrooms are locked at 6PM except the ones on Air & Space route.


    What to Bring

    • Food. Some people may experience dizziness due to strenuous physical activity. Food can sometimes resolve this.

    • Ten Essentials

    • Phone/camera 

    • Walking and running clothes, including good-quality shoes.

    • Any prescription or other needed medications

    • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)

    • A reflective vest and a light vest are highly recommended. It gets dark, and you will be jogging across busy streets at dusk. Example of one on Amazon

    Suggestions: 

    You may be running/walking with people not in Great Outdoors. Please be careful crossing streets running/walking. Its best to use the pedestrian walk button when crossing, even when others are crossing without the green walk sign. Print the map so you have a copy.

    You will be crossing multiple lanes of traffic and walking/running along crowded areas. Call-out/shout when passing anyone/anything and hold your hands out and use eye contact when crossing alleyways and stop signs. If you bump anyone, take notes on exactly what happened.

    The run starts a little after  6:00PM. Wear bright colors and lights. It gets very dark towards the end of the walk/run.

    Be careful around dogs/children. Do not assume all dogs are friendly.

    If you get lost, backtrack. We meet up at the same location we started from. The group rarely leaves the starting location until everyone has returned. If you intend to run, try a practice 5-mile run before this event. If you cannot finish within 60 min. You may want to run partway and then reverse and run back the way you came, cutting your distance.

    There are devices/apps that will call 9-1-1 if you fall/become unresponsive. Consider getting a device/app that does this if you’re worried about falling.

    Wear a good pair of running shoes. If you feel pain, stop and then walk back. In addition, keep track of sores. Go to a hospital if you notice any change. Talk to your doctor prior to the run if you have any kind of medical problems.

    For the University and Air & Space run, there is active construction at the corner of University Ave and 6th Ave. We’ll take a shortcut through alleyways to avoid this area in order to get back onto 6th Ave on the return back. (7th, then Pennsylvania, then 6th)

    Cell Phone: Bring your cellphone with you. If you run into any medical issues, dial 9-1-1.

    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. Optionally, you’re more than welcome to wait for the group to return to the starting spot in less than 1 hour if you feel this walk/run will be too much. Please do not leave early. Stay for the entire hour and a half.

    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 leaders: Jeremiah O’Neal (Text 619-788-9407), but please do so before the day of the event. I will not be reachable during the event.

    This is an event not organized by Great Outdoors. You must agree to any terms and conditions listed on https://frwsd.org/ to participate with Front Runners & Walkers.



    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.

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  • PS - Hike / Bike Planning Meeting Jan 14 -- SAVE THE DATE

    • Wed, January 14, 2026
    • 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    • IHOP Restaurant 471 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
    • 18

    Hike, bike, and day activities planning meeting. We meet in the back room for breakfast. We will review the calendar for the next 2 or 3 months and schedule accordingly. 

    If you are unable to attend, you may submit your hike, bike or other event and we will work to get them scheduled.

    Activities to consider other than hiking are welcome.


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

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

    Contact VP of Outings click here with your ideas and suggestions .



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  • SD - Hike - Penny Pines Loop Hike

    • Sat, January 17, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Penny pines trailhead, 12031 Sunrise Hwy, Mt Laguna
    • 2 registrants
    Register

    Penny Pines Loop @ Laguna Mountain

    Saturday Jan. 17th, 2026 @ 9am 


    This hike is approx. 10 miles with 1400' elevation gain. Beginning at Penny Pines, we will make a loop that includes parts of the Big Laguna Trail and then we will cross Sunrise Highway and head back to Penny Pines via the Pacific Crest trail. If the weather is clear there will be fantastic views of the desert all the way to the Salton Sea along the Pacific Crest Trail part of the hike.

    Hike Start Time and Location: 9:00am at Penny Pines trailhead Note: Rain cancels!

    Hike Length: approx. 10 miles

    Hike Elevation Change: 1400'

    Hike Difficulty Rating: Moderate

    Estimated Hike Time: 5 hours

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

    Hiking Trail Details (AllTrails or Similar link):  https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/big-laguna-mountain-loop-trail?mobileMap=false&ref=sidebar-static-map for an idea of the general trail conditions

    Parking Information: Adventure pass/National Parks Pass/Federal lands recreation pass required for parking

    Take I-8 East to Sunrise Highway exit, go north 14 miles, park on either side of the Sunrise Highway

    Due to insurance limitations GO is not permitted to take part in arranging carpools. Contact hike leader Scott with questions.

    Costs involved: Parking pass if not already owned

    Pets Permitted: No

    What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*: Water, lunch, snack

    Who to Contact with Questions: **If you are unable to make it to the hike please contact the trip leader ** Trip leader Scott Opis @ [email protected], 202-257-2833

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

    1. Navigation

    2. Headlamp

    3. Sun Protection

    4. First Aid

    5. Knife

    6. Fire

    7. Shelter

    8. Extra food

    9. Extra water

    10. Extra clothes


    Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

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  • PS - Hike: Skull Rock in JTNP - SAVE THE DATE

    • Mon, January 19, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Joshua Treet National Park

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

    Description:

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

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

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

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

    Contact hike leader:  Kirk O. Email click here

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

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

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


    Photos: (optional)

    Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

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

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


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


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  • PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Jan 21

    • Wed, January 21, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
    Register

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

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

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

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

    Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

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

    Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

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





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


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  • CORP - Outdoors Experience - Agua Caliente Hike and Trip Leader Training Campout

    • Fri, January 23, 2026
    • 2:00 PM
    • Sun, January 25, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Agua Caliente County Campground
    Register

    OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE at Agua Caliente County Park

    Hike Leader and/ or Trip Leader 

      You may attend either one or both.

      Friday Jan 23 to Jan 25, 2026

      • 2 pm Arrival and camp set up 
      • Evening bonfire and hot springs adult only hours 

      Saturday Jan 24: - Training classes in the Agua Caliente Community Room 

      • 8:30 am - 12:30 pm  Hike Leader Training
      • 1 pm - 4 pm Trip Leader Training

      Sunday Jan 24 : 

      • 11:30 am - Checkout

      Registration: You may request printed manual(s) be mailed to your during registration process, ($25 each). You will be refunded upon check in at the training.

      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. Also a good refresher for hike leaders.

      Hike Leader Syllabus

      Prerequisites: Great Outdoors member (click here to join). The course is  for anyone interested in becoming a hiker 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 attitudes of a trained hike leader, including appropriate risk management for day hikes. 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, 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:

      How to Lead a Hike: Video: Click Here

      Printed manuals will be available at the training location. 

      Registration fee is fully refundable upon check in.


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

      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.

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

      Schedule: Start Saturday at 8:30 am and go to 4:30 pm with a 30 min. lunch break.  Coffee, tea, water provided. Bring a mug for hot drinks.

      What to bring:  Lunch, water bottle, mug for hot drinks. If you are taking the Hike Leader course bring day pack with your 10 essentials. If you are tent camping, bring food, camp gear, warm clothing, etc.

      Contact: Matthew Schreiner at [email protected] 

      Course Preparation: We will send you a link to the Outdoor Experience Training Manuals. You are encouraged to review the material ahead of time. 

      Link to Training Resources: Click Here

      Suggested Reading:
      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




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    • LA Hike - Art Walk of Bunker Hill, Downtown LA

      • Sun, January 25, 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM
      • Bank of America Tower at 333 Hope Street
      • 12
      • 13 registrants
      Register


      Art Walk of Bunker Hill, Downtown LA

      When:  10 AM, Sunday, January 25, 2026

      Join Getty & LACMA docent Brian Burchfield as we explore the many sculpture gardens of Bunker Hill.

      Where:  We’ll meet at the plaza in front of Bank of America Tower at 333 Hope Street. Look for Alexander Calder’s Four Arches.

      Some of the artists whose work we will see include Alexander Calder, Robert Graham, Louise Nevelson, Larry Bell and Frank Gehry.

      We suggest taking public transportation or parking nearby at Walt Disney Concert Hall or MOCA.

      The tour will either end at MOCA sculpture garden called the Nest to see Larry Bell work titled Bill and Coo, or at Walt Disney Concert Hall where we will look at Frank Gehry’s sculpture A Rose for Lily.

      Optional Lunch:  We can take Angel’s Flight down to Grand Central Market or the trip leader can suggest other places in the area for the group to lunch around noon.  Angel’s Flight costs $1.50 to ride one way. They take Metro TAP cards.


      Registration is free but required for liability waiver purposes.

      Trip Leader: Brian Burchfield  [email protected]


      © 1981 - 2025 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

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    • PS - January Game Night: Gather Your Balls and Grease Your Alley for BOWLING!!

      • Sun, January 25, 2026
      • 12:45 PM - 3:00 PM
      • Palm Springs Lanes
      • 9
      • 23 registrants
      Register

          IT'S TIME TO STRIKE UP SOME FUN!

      Sunday, January 25th, 2026

      Registration for this event is limited to GO members. Nonmembers and guests may join Great Outdoors - click here.

      Please join us for the Great Outdoors Palm Springs BOWLING AFTERNOON on Sunday, January 25th, 2026 from 12:45 to 3:00 pm. PLEASE ARRIVE BY 12:45 PM. BOWLING WILL COMMENCE AT 1:00 PM SHARP!  Palm Springs Lanes is located at 68051 Ramon Road in Cathedral City.  (click here for directions). 

      Each team will be comprised of 6 people. Palm Springs Lanes will provide each team free shoe rental, as well as a large pizza and 2 pitchers of soft drinks for each team (included in the cost per member).  Additional food/drinks are available at the Snack Bar on a cash basis. 

      NOTE: Please wear your GREAT OUTDOORS T-shirts!  

      The cost to members for this event is $25.00 per person. Payment must be made at time of registration.  Due to prepayment requirements we have with the bowling alley, there will be no refunds if you cancel this event. Please let Robert Varga know if you cannot attend so we may plan accordingly.

      This event is limited to 32 attendees. 

      For questions, please contact Robert Varga via text 760-641-9112.

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

      Thank you for participating in the Great Outdoors club!
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    • PS - Hike: Toutain Canyon and Waterfall - SAVE THE DATE

      • Mon, January 26, 2026
      • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Whitewater Preserve

      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
      • 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 click here)
      • or 9:00 AM at the Tukut trailhead parking lot Map click here. (USE THE POINT LOCATION ON THE MAP LINK ON THE 2/12 TOUTANE HIKE).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.

      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 link.

      Contact hike leader: Kirk O. Email

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

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

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

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

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

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


      © 1981 - 2024 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


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    • PS - Monthly Membership Meeting - In-Person

      • Tue, January 27, 2026
      • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
      • Room 3, Floor 3, LGBTQ Community Center, 1301 North Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs and Online using Zoom
      • 30
      • Be the first
      Register


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

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

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

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    • PS - Hike: Jane's Hoffbrau - SAVE THE DATE

      • Mon, February 09, 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Palm Springs

      HIKE - JANE'S HOFFBRAU

      • Length: Approx 3 miles
      • Route: Out and back
      • Hike time: Approx 2 hours
      • Elevation Gain: Approx 700'
      • Difficulty: Moderate

      Meet at 9:00 AM at the Rimrock Plaza (Vons) 4733 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. Park in the East parking lot near the Eisenhower facility and meet at the parking lot corner in front of the Thrifty Wash. Depart at 9:00 AM. Arrive a few minutes early for introductions and briefing. Map Click Here

      Description: The hike starts at the dirt road at the far eastside 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 and Cathedral City. We then hike the plateau until we descend a canyon to Jane's Hoffbrau Palm Oasis. No, there is no coffee served here, but it is a small beautiful canyon with a dry waterfall and it is loaded with palm trees. We will relax in the shade of the palms and then return on the same trail. 

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

      Contact Hike Leader: Kirk O. 

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




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    • PS - Hike: Willis Palms Oasis - SAVE THE DATE

      • Tue, February 10, 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
      • Willis Palms Trail, Thousand Palms, CA

      Willis Palms Oasis

      Hike along the San Andreas Fault to a lush palm oasis featuring views of the Coachella Valley, San Jacinto and San Gorgonio mountains, and a walk through an extensive Washingtonia Filifera Palm grove.  The Willis Palms Trail is part of the Coachella Valley Preserve located 10 miles east of Palm Springs in the bluffs and mesas of the Indio Hills. The trailhead is located on Thousand Palms Canyon Road a short distance from the intersection of Ramon and Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, on the left (west side).


      • Meet at PetSmart (Ramon & Crossley) Time: 9:00 AM Map click here or the Willis Palms Trailhead parking area (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. Limited parking at trailhead or alongside roadway. 
      • Trail features: Out and back loop, 3 miles length, 2 hrs. duration, elevation gain/loss 300 ft., mostly full sun exposure.  
      • Terrain: rocky, sandy areas, portion of trail narrow with steep drop-off on one side.
      • Difficulty Rating: Moderate
      • Sorry no pets allowed in the Preserve.
      • Please advise leader of any medical concerns or physical limitations.
      • Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks.
      • Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. 
      • Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.
      • Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

      Contact Hike Leader:  Pat M.





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    • SD - Social - Valentine's Paint Lesson: Love is in the Air!

      • Sun, February 15, 2026
      • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
      • Eric and Tyler's House, La Mesa CA 91942
      • Be the first
      Register

      Valentine's Paint Lesson: Love is in the Air!

      Sunday Feb 15th, 2026 @ 2pm in La Mesa

      Join us for a fun and creative art class where we'll design beautiful abstract paintings featuring a heart as the centerpiece! Personalize your masterpiece by adding the name of your special someone, short poem, or an inspiring quote. No experience needed-just bring your imagination and love!

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

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

      Event Specific Equipment: All equipment provided

      Parking Information: Street parking is available

      Costs involved: $30/person

      Pets Permitted: Dog friendly

      What to Bring: Just your imagination and love!

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


      Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

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    • PS - Hike: Split Rock Plus - Joshua Tree Park

      • Mon, February 16, 2026
      • 7:15 AM - 3:00 PM
      • Joshua Tree National Park

      Split Rock Loop Trail in Joshua Tree National Park will be our first stop. This is an easy, undulating 2.7 mile trail with convenient, sedan accessible parking. Interesting rock formations abound, including one quite wonderful anthropomorphic feature, and a few seemingly out-of-place trees. 

      The next stop is Hall of Horrors. Opportunities to scamper over, under, and between rocks have been reported to bring an instant return to youthful joy. If we are lucky, we will find the well-hidden Hall of Horrors and descend into it to find the spooky feature. Those uninterested in scrambling on the rocks can enjoy an easy stroll around the rocky outcroppings.  Additional hiking in this area is about 1+miles.

      • Elevation gain: 295 to 500 feet
      • Total Distance: 3 to 4.5 miles
      • Pace: Under 30 minutes per mile for first stop, and slower later
      • Terrain: Varied, compacted sand, deep sand, optional rock scrambling
      • Obstacles: Rocks, boulders, plants
      • Difficulty rating:  Moderate

      Departure Location: Meet at 7:15 am at Carl's Jr. at Hwy 111 and Racquet Club Rd (Map click here)

      Fees/Charges: Joshua Tree Park entrance fee. It is highly recommended that you enter Joshua Tree National Park from the North Entrance, located in 29 Palms.  It is the closest entry to the trailhead. In addition, there are fewer visitors entering at this location.

      Hiking Requirements:  Although the trail is fairly level, 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 O.

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

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

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

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    • PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Feb 18

      • Wed, February 18, 2026
      • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
      Register

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

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

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

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

      Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

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

      Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

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





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


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    • SD - Urban Walk - Front Runners Meet Up

      • Thu, February 19, 2026
      • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
      • SE Corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street, San Diego CA
      • Be the first
      Register

      San Diego Urban Walk with Frontrunners

      Thursday 2/19 at 6pm sharp *Check website for location. 

      Multiple walk/run options will be announced at the beginning of this event at 6PM. Walking through Balboa Park past the bridge, running University, and running around Air & Space, and then to University. For this event, I will be walking. However, you may decide on any of the options when you get there. Make sure that you bring a map. Maps are posted below. See Trail.

      The meetup is in the blue square. The red arrows show what direction walkers and runners will be heading after the group photo. PLEASE DO NOT START WALKING/RUNNING UNTIL AFTER THE GROUP PHOTO!!!

      Front Runners & Walkers is San Diego’s LGBTQ+ running club. This group currently meet weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays to walk and run in Balboa Park at 6th Avenue and Laurel Street (frwsd.org/)

      For this event, I will be walking with Frontrunners through Balboa Park and then back. At upcoming events, I jog Air & Space. My average/continuous running speed is 5.2mi (and 2.2mi above my average at the beginning) in 55min non-stop. I’ve been running with this group for about a month after 2025 Pride. I’m doing it for my health.


      Host: Jeremiah O’Neal

      Trail: https://frwsd.org/schedule/#routes-distance (Click Routes)

      Length: up to 5.5 miles (Air & Space) (See Frontrunners website for all routes)

      Difficulty: Easy (walking) to Difficult (running)

      Elevation Gain: up to 30 to 200 feet, depending on the route taken

      RSVP: Please visit https://frwsd.org/ and familiarize yourself with the information on the website, including the times and routes, before joining. Registration is not required since we’re joining as a guests with the Front Runners group. The group meets in a circle. You’ll want to mention that you’re joining as Jeremiah’s guest and briefly discuss yourself, such as your favorite walks around Mission Bay, etc. You can then say that you would like to walk. Or if you wish to run, you can do University/Air & Space. It is a very difficult run for beginners, but easy after your 2nd or 3rd time running it, and a lot of fun.

      Meeting Location: https://frwsd.org/schedule/#general-meet-up-schedule Click General Meet up Schedule

      Meeting Date & Time: Thurs @ 6pm  *Check website for location.

      Parking: It is currently free to park in Balboa Park, nearby to our meeting spot next to the Information Center Booth

      Cost: Absolutely free. 

      Time Commitment: Plan for 1.5 hours (1hr when we start walking or running). Please do not leave early and meet back at the starting location before 1hr after the run. 

      Dogs: Follow Balboa Park rules if you decide to bring a pet. Most frontrunners do bring pets on Saturday.

      Trail Details:  Sidewalks, stairs, parking lots, congested areas, restrooms along Air & Space route, grass. Note, all of the bathrooms are locked at 6PM except the ones on Air & Space route.


      What to Bring

      • Food. Some people may experience dizziness due to strenuous physical activity. Food can sometimes resolve this.

      • Ten Essentials

      • Phone/camera 

      • Walking and running clothes, including good-quality shoes.

      • Any prescription or other needed medications

      • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)

      • A reflective vest and a light vest are highly recommended. It gets dark, and you will be jogging across busy streets at dusk. Example of one on Amazon

      Suggestions: 

      You may be running/walking with people not in Great Outdoors. Please be careful crossing streets running/walking. Its best to use the pedestrian walk button when crossing, even when others are crossing without the green walk sign. Print the map so you have a copy.

      You will be crossing multiple lanes of traffic and walking/running along crowded areas. Call-out/shout when passing anyone/anything and hold your hands out and use eye contact when crossing alleyways and stop signs. If you bump anyone, take notes on exactly what happened.

      The run starts a little after  6:00PM. Wear bright colors and lights. It gets very dark towards the end of the walk/run.

      Be careful around dogs/children. Do not assume all dogs are friendly.

      If you get lost, backtrack. We meet up at the same location we started from. The group rarely leaves the starting location until everyone has returned. If you intend to run, try a practice 5-mile run before this event. If you cannot finish within 60 min. You may want to run partway and then reverse and run back the way you came, cutting your distance.

      There are devices/apps that will call 9-1-1 if you fall/become unresponsive. Consider getting a device/app that does this if you’re worried about falling.

      Wear a good pair of running shoes. If you feel pain, stop and then walk back. In addition, keep track of sores. Go to a hospital if you notice any change. Talk to your doctor prior to the run if you have any kind of medical problems.

      For the University and Air & Space run, there is active construction at the corner of University Ave and 6th Ave. We’ll take a shortcut through alleyways to avoid this area in order to get back onto 6th Ave on the return back. (7th, then Pennsylvania, then 6th)

      Cell Phone: Bring your cellphone with you. If you run into any medical issues, dial 9-1-1.

      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. Optionally, you’re more than welcome to wait for the group to return to the starting spot in less than 1 hour if you feel this walk/run will be too much. Please do not leave early. Stay for the entire hour and a half.

      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 leaders: Jeremiah O’Neal (Text 619-788-9407), but please do so before the day of the event. I will not be reachable during the event.

      This is an event not organized by Great Outdoors. You must agree to any terms and conditions listed on https://frwsd.org/ to participate with Front Runners & Walkers.



      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.

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    • SD - Social - San Diego Botanic Garden Tour

      • Sat, February 21, 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
      • San Diego Botanic Garden, 300 Quail Gardens Drive at Ecke Ranch Rd, Encinitas, CA 92024
      • 24
      • 1 registrant
      Register

      San Diego Botanic Garden Tour


      Welcome to the San Diego Botanic Garden's 37-acre urban oasis featuring 4 miles of meandering trails and ocean views, 5,000+ plant species and varieties, and 29 uniquely themed gardens that represent 15 different regions and many habitats of the world. This natural wonderland is designed for children and adults, alike; explore your interests, learn about the plant world that surrounds us, and let nature fill you with a little wonder.

      Start Time and Location: 10:00am Saturday 2/21/26 outside the Conservancy 

      Event Specific Challenges (stairs, animals, allergens): Potential allergies, waterfall stairway (optional)

      Event Specific Equipment: N/A

      Parking Information: Free on site

      Costs involved: 

      • SDBG Members and AHS Reciprocal Garden Members) Bring Membership info & ID) Free
      • Adult $18
      • Military, Senior (60+), Student $15
      • Youth (3-17) $10
      • Child (under 3) Free
      • Note: If a financial constraint is preventing you from attending, please reach out to us as we can secure additional tickets as needed!

      Pets Permitted: N/A

      What to Bring: Water, good walking shoes

      Trip Leader: Jeff Clingan, San Diego Botanic Garden Chair, Volunteer Committee and Docent Training Coordinator


      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.

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    • PS - Hike: Toutain Canyon and Waterfall - SAVE THE DATE

      • Mon, February 23, 2026
      • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Whitewater Preserve

      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
      • 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 click here)
      • or 9:00 AM at the Tukut trailhead parking lot Map click here. (USE THE POINT LOCATION ON THE MAP LINK ON THE 2/12 TOUTANE HIKE).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.

      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 link.

      Contact hike leader: Kirk O. Email

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

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

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

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

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

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


      © 1981 - 2024 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


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    • PS: Camp: Mojave Preserve

      • Fri, February 27, 2026
      • 1:00 PM
      • Mon, March 02, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Mojave National Preserve
      • 0
      Join waitlist

      Mojave Preserve: Black Canyon Group Camp site


      Mojave Preserve is a remote and beautiful expanse of high desert. The Hole In The Wall area is at the end of a paved road and contains a visitor center, a standard campground, a fire station, and our group camp site on a dirt road. This is a semi-off-grid campout. On the western side is a through road to Baker, the Kelso dunes, and a train depot (closed at this time).

      We will try to get tickets to Mitchell Caverns for Sunday morning. If we are able to obtain them, you will pay for them at the event. An email will go out once they are obtained.

      Black Canyon group site -- Our camp site is remote and quiet.  The moon will be nearly full for this event. Fires are allowed in the fire ring, bring firewood (if there is no rain this winter, fires may be forbidden). There is water available and vault toilets, but no other amenities. There is a shade structure with picnic tables.

      Map here. Note that the exit is Essex Road off I-40

      Check in time is 1:00pm, please don't arrive early; if you are early, you can hang out at the visitor center area, which across the paved road from our camp site road. Check out time is noon.

      There is very little cell service, wi-fi should be available at the visitor center which is near the Hole In The Wall standard campground.

      Trip Leader: Joey Duhon mail and Cliff Clue mail

      Sunrise 6:15, Sunset 5:45

      To do: hike Rings Loop which is behind the visitor center is 1.5mi and has great geology and some fun easy climbing, and the Rock Springs Loop trail to the north.

      Some maybe interested in hiking up the Kelso Dunes. 

      There are some 4x4 options; beside the Mojave Road (which is extensive) there is a shorter trail from Mid-Hills to Hole In The Wall.


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    • OCLB - Jumbo Rocks Camping at Joshua Tree NP

      • Fri, February 27, 2026
      • 4:00 PM
      • Sun, March 01, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree NP
      Register

      OCLB- Jumbo Rocks Camping at Joshua Tree NP

      Fri. 2/27/26 to Sun. 3/01/26

      Jumbo Rocks Campground, near Twentynine Palms, California, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Surrounded by impressive rock formations, this campground offers a unique backdrop for camping, climbing, and exploring the high desert.

      The campground features designated sites with picnic tables and fire pits, making it easy to enjoy meals and evenings around the fire. Visitors have noted the abundance of nearby hiking trails and the convenience of clean pit toilets scattered throughout the area.

      While the campground can get busy, many campers appreciate the privacy offered by certain sites, especially those tucked away among the rocks. The vibrant sunsets and starry nights are a big draw, with one reviewer mentioning, “Sunsets at Joshua Tree are magical!” Whether you are climbing the rocks or just soaking in the views, Jumbo Rocks Campground is a great base for our desert adventures. 

      Registration: Limited to Great Outdoors members

      Starts: Fri. Feb 27th, 2026 at 4pm

      Ends: Sun. Mar. 1st, 2026 at 12pm

      Space left: 6 vehicles

      Location: Jumbo Rocks Campground is located 18 miles from the West Entrance, or 12 miles from the North Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park via Park Blvd.  

      Directions: Take Int. 10 East from Long Beach and Orange County to Palm Springs. Take Hwy 62 to Yucca Valley.  In Yucca Valley, drive eastbound on Hwy 62 to Park Blvd. Turn right at Park Blvd.

      Park Blvd turns into Quail Springs Road. Continue until you reach the Joshua Tree National Park West entrance.  After entry, Quail Springs Road turns into Park Blvd.  Drive 18 miles from the West entrance to Jumbo Rocks campground. 

      Carpooling- All members are responsible for arranging their own transportation.  Carpooling is highly encouraged to allow more members to attend because each campsite has a vehicle limit. There is no overflow parking. 

      If you can offer to carpool to another member or are interested in joining a carpool with another member, check out the website:

      www.groupcarpool.com

      I cannot arrange carpools for members, but I invite you to click the link above to connect with other members to arrange a carpool. 

      Waitlist- If the trip is full, please add yourself to the waitlist.

      Important information

      NO WATER—There is no water at Jumbo Rocks Campground.  You must bring enough water to drink, cook, and wash during the camping trip.  I suggest you bring AT LEAST (2) gallons of water for drinking and (1) gallon of water for washing.

      NO CELL PHONE SERVICE- Depending on your cell phone provider, you may have limited or no cell phone service within JTNP.

      NO FUEL- There are no gas stations within JTNP.  Fill up your fuel tank before entering the park.

       

      Schedule

      Fri. Feb. 27th

      4 pm Arrive, check in with trip leader, Set up camp. Climb a Jumbo Rock (carefully!)

      5 pm- Welcome Tea- Refreshments provided. Meet & Greet

      6 pm- Group campfire, star gaze, and good conversation.


      Sat Feb. 28th.

      8 am- Breakfast on you own.

      9 am to 3pm—Arrange carpools for day activity options: Driving tour to Hidden Valley, Keys Point, and Cholla Cactus Garden.  Afternoon walk to Skull Rock.  Optional hike to Ryan Mountain.  Pack a lunch and water.

      5:30pm- Group Dinner Potluck

      6pm- Group Campfire, star gaze, and more good conversation.

       

      Sun Mar. 1st.

      8 am- Breakfast on your own.

      9 am to 11 am— Group photo.  Break camp, pack up, and see you at the next Great Outdoors event!

      Noon- Check out 

      Amenities: Campsites feature a picnic table and a fire ring.  The campground has vault toilets and trash bins.  There is NO WATER at the campground.  Bring enough water for drinking and washing for 2 nights.   Bring AT LEAST (2) gallons of water for drinking and (2) gallons of water for washing.

      Parking: 4 vehicles (1 vehicle per campsite), 2 vehicles (1 campsite accommodates 2 vehicles).  NO overflow parking. 

      RVs: No RVs on this campout.    

      What to bring: Tent, Camp chair, Sleeping bag with a sleeping pad or air mattress, Air pump with extra batteries for air mattress, Pillow, Extra blanket, Day pack for hiking, camp stove, matches or lighter, propane fuel, flashlight with batteries, a lantern with batteries, headlight with red light feature and batteries, external power bank and phone charger; cooking utensils, cold weather clothing (jacket, sweater, long sleeve shirts, long pants, beanie), underwear, shirts, sleeping clothes, socks, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, toilet paper, toiletries kit, Wet Wipes, and hand sanitizer.  Please bring your own reusable plates, cups, mugs, and eating utensils. You may want to get a pop-up shade with an anchor.   

      BRING 1 bundle of firewood per person.

      Climate: February Avg. high 65 F, Avg. low 44 F.  Be prepared for COLD nights and mornings.  Bring cold-weather clothing and dress in layers.  Bring an extra blanket.  Rain is unpredictable.  Bring a raincoat if rain is forecast.  Wear sun protection: Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and long pants and long-sleeved shirts. 

      Fees:The camping fee is $75 per driver and $65 per passenger. The camping fee is discounted for passengers carpooling with a driver in the same vehicle. Carpooling is highly encouraged to help more people attend this event and save on fuel and trip costs. Bring cash to contribute to a carpool driver during the Saturday activities.

      There is a $30 per-vehicle park entrance fee, payable to the ranger at the entrance.  This is in addition to the camping fee.  Displaying a valid national park pass waives the park entrance fee.

      Cancellation & Refund Policy: Attendees may self-cancel with a refund, less a $10 fee, by midnight Friday, February 13th, 2026. No refunds will be given for self-cancellations after 2/13/26 or for no-shows.  Refunds are processed via PayPal, Zelle or check. 

      Attendees must self-cancel via email to the trip leader.  Please provide your email address linked to your PayPal or Zelle account. 

      Please do not self-cancel on the Wild Apricot website, as refunds cannot be processed through this method.   

      Food: Bring enough food, water, and snacks for two days. I will provide refreshments at the Friday welcome tea.  Snacks to share with others are always welcome.  The theme for the Saturday night dinner potluck is “South of the Border.”   

      Dogs: Yes, dogs are allowed in Joshua Tree National Park but with significant restrictions: they must be leashed (six feet or less), can only walk within 100 feet of roads and campgrounds, and are strictly prohibited on all hiking trails, in the backcountry, and inside buildings. Owners must pick up and properly dispose of pet waste. 

      Communication: I will contact attendees at least two weeks before the camp starts to share essential details about the camping trip, including campsite assignments.  I am available via email for communication.  However, I may not reply to emails right away due to my work schedule.  I respond to emails about the camping trip on my days off.  


      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 the camping trip on my days off. 


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    • SD/OCLB - Campout - Full Lunar Eclipse & Mineral Pools Campout

      • Sun, March 01, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Tue, March 03, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Agua Caliente County Park Campground, 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036
      • 16
      • 6 registrants
      Register

      San Diego/Orange County Long Beach

      Full Lunar Eclipse & Mineral Pools Campout

      Sun March 1 - Tues March 3, 2026 @ Agua Caliente County Park


      Overview

      You're invited to join Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) at Agua Caliente County Park for a relaxation filled 2 nights. We will enjoy a nearly empty park over these weeknights, relaxing in the geothermally heated springs mineral pools (an indoor 102 °F therapeutic spa with adult only hours in the evening), a sun deck outside the pools for lounging, and late night fires before the full lunar eclipse.  Amenities include coin-pay showers and hot spring-fed pools.

      Agua Caliente County Park is a 910 acre park just west of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in eastern San Diego County.

      Agua Caliente - Desert Hot Springs - TourGuideTim Reveals San Diego!

      Schedule

      Sunday 3/1/26

      2 PM - Check in after 2 PM

      5 PM - “Happy hour” - Come say hi to follow campers and enjoy the waning hours of sunset. Bring your own meal/beverage of choice.

      6-9 PM - Adult only mineral pool time!

      9 PM - Group Bonfire

      Monday 3/2/26

      Breakfast - on your own

      9 AM - Optional 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. Some possibilities include Mud Caves, Domelands and Wind Caves, Ghost Mountain, Cold Canyon or other regional gems.

      3 PM - Time in the pools at camp

      5 PM - Sunset Social Hour - Bring your own meal/beverage of choice.

      6-9 PM - Adult only mineral pool time!

      9-11 PM - Group Bonfire

      12 AM - Optional Scorpion Hunt

      2-4 AM - Full Lunar Eclipse (3-4am, with 3:30am peak)

      Tuesday 03/16/25

      Breakfast - on your own

      10 AM - Time for another dip in the pools or a short hike - and packing and cleaning up the camp sites.

      12 PM - Check Out.

      Agua Caliente County Park Hot Springs

      Campground Rules and Regulations

      A complete listing of campground rules and regulations may be found here:

      http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2017_Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL.pdf

      Here are some of the more common rules:

      Pets - Are permitted if they are quiet, properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash not longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Dogs are not allowed in cabins or on trails. There is a $1 per night fee for each pet, which is not included in your GOSD registration payment. It is payable upon check-in at the campground.

      Quiet Hours- 10 PM - 8 AM

      Campfires – Completely Extinguished by 11 PM

      Smoking- Is not allowed in Agua Caliente County Park.

      Alcohol - Alcoholic beverages are permitted provided the alcohol content does not exceed 20%.

      What to Bring
      • Quarters for showers
      • Pool gear (towel, swimsuit and water shoes)
      • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)
      • One bundle of firewood


      Contact - If you have any questions not addressed by the information above or on our registration page, please feel free to contact the trip leaders:

      Tyler Roosden @ 651.497.1611 or Michael Millan @ [email protected]

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


      Cancellation and Refunds

      You may cancel your reservation and receive a full refund up to 3 weeks before the trip start date, unless your spot is replaced with another camper.


      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.


      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.

      For full Agua Caliente County Park information - View the Agua Caliente County Park brochure or map at the following links:

      http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/AguaCalienteBrochure.pdf

      http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2016%20Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL_9_13_16.pdf

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    • PS - Hike: Shannon, Berns and Araby Loop - SAVE THE DATE

      • Fri, March 06, 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains

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

      Description:

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

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

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

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

      Contact hike leader:  Email click here

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

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

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


      Photos: (optional)

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

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

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


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


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    • PS - Hike Indian Canyons: Andreas Canyon Ranger Hike - save the date

      • Tue, March 10, 2026
      • 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
      • Indian Canyons 38500 S Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs CA

      Palm Canyon/Victor and Andreas Canyon Trails

      Indian Canyons includes some of the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla (pronounced Kaw-we-ah) Indians.  This leisurely hike will be through scenic areas of colorful, rocky canyons and unmatched palm groves.

      2. Trading Post.  Lunch break will be at the Trading Post with snacks and refreshments, art and artifacts, books, jewelry, pottery, baskets, weavings, and a short walk on the West Fork waterfall trail.

      3. Andreas Canyon.  Next we will drive down to the Andreas Canyon loop hike with remnants of Cahuilla settlements, the world’s second largest grove of Washingtonia palms, a babbling brook and views of a hidden private club.

      • Meet Location:  Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot. MAP 
      • Meet Time: 8:30 am 
      • Trail Length: 2.7 miles Palm Canyon/Victor trails loop; 1.0 mile Andreas Canyon loop. 
      • Total Elevation Gain: 393 ft in the 2.7-mile Palm Canyon/Victor Trail loop. 173 ft in the 1.0-mile Andreas Canyon loop.
      • Difficulty Rating: Moderate  (gradual ascent/descent, mostly easy but with some moderate sections). (approx. 3.5 hr. duration)
      • Type: Well-trodden and marked trails.
      • Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 liters recommended), lunch and snacks. Hat, sunscreen and layered clothing are recommended.
      • Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).
      • Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.

      Hike Leader:  Pat M.

      Each participant must pay the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation entry fee ($12 per person, $7 for seniors 62+, Free military/first responder) at the Indian Canyons tollgate, just past the south end of South Palm Canyon Drive. The gate opens at 8 am.

      Participants may pay in advance online, print out the confirmation and hand it to the gate agent. Or, pay at the gate.  See “Purchase Tickets” https://www.indian-canyons.com/hours

      Drivers should proceed to the Palm Canyon Trailhead/Trading Post parking lot at the far end of the canyon road.  Carpooling is encouraged because cars may be lined up at the tollgate and parking can be limited. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share. 

      Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels 

      Web: https://www.indian-canyons.com/indian_canyons

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

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    • PS - Camping - Salton Sea - Mecca Beach Campground - SAVE THE DATE

      • Thu, March 12, 2026
      • 2:00 PM
      • Sun, March 15, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • Mecca Beach, Salton Sea, CA

      Come and experience the Salton Sea for yourself, and discover why it is one of the most extraordinary and fascinating places in California. It is a unique place with many hidden treasures and secrets that are not well known. It has been forgotten as a busy tourist attraction of bygone years. Today, we have an amazing place to visit and explore. The sunsets and sunrises are stunning and peaceful. You should take the opportunity to experience it before its receding water levels cause it to change and vanish.

      One of the world's largest inland seas and lowest spots on earth at -227 below sea level, Salton Sea was re-created in 1905 when high spring flooding on the Colorado River crashed the canal gates leading into the developing Imperial Valley. For the next 18 months the entire volume of the Colorado River rushed downward into the Salton Trough. By the time engineers were finally able to stop the breaching water in 1907, the Salton Sea had been born at 45 miles long and 20 miles wide – equaling about 130 miles of shoreline. Salton Sea State Recreation Area covers 14 miles of the northeastern shore. Campers, birdwatchers, photographers and hikers can enjoy the site's many recreation opportunities. View the Salton Sea Recreation Area Brochure here.

      We will be camping at the Mecca Beach campground at the Salton Sea Recreation Area (SRA). The meet and greet, potluck and other activities will take place there. March is an ideal time to visit with mild temperatures.  Mecca Beach Campground is remote.  The markets and activities are a 20+ minute drive from the campground.  This campground is 50 yards from the water. In recent years, most life in the Salton Sea has perished, so there is no more massive fish die-offs, which means there is no longer that potent scent.  In fact there is typically no smell coming from the sea at all.  The sea itself is awe-inspiring.  You should not swim in the water at Salton Sea, nor should you allow your dogs to drink the water.  It is heavily polluted with fertilizer chemicals from farm run-off.  

      Activities could include hiking a slot canyon in the Mecca Hills, a 4x4 excursion, or an easy hike to the Visitor Center to view exhibits and a video on the Salton Sea.  Other activities could be a road trip to Niland area sites, including Salvation Mountain and East Jesus in Slab City, Obsidian Butte, the mud pot volcanoes, and the Salton Sea Reclamation Project. Check the whiteboard for updated activities info.

      NOTE:  This event is limited to GO members.  When you register, you'll need to have your credit card 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.

      Contact: Trip Leaders Robert Varga or Dale Solomon.

      *TENTATIVE Schedule of Events

      Thursday, March 12

      • 2pm - Check-in @site 140

      • 5pm - Meet and Greet - wear your name tag - bring an hor’devour to share if you want @site 140. If the sky is clear, the sunset could be stunning!

      • 6pm - Dinner on your own, restaurants somewhat nearby

      • 7pm - Group campfire, @site 138, bring firewood

      Friday, March 13

      • 7am - Coffee & pastries @site 140, 

      •  9am - *Caravan to Niland Area including Salvation Mountain and Mud Volcanoes.  Approx. 4 hours round trip.  Curt Black will be the tour guide.

      •  1pm - * Hike- Bat Caves, or other; hike leader needed. 

      •  6pm - Potluck: bring a main dish, salad, or side dish to share @Site 140

      • 8:00pm - Group Campfire, @site 138, bring firewood

      Saturday, March 14

      • 7am - Coffee & continental breakfast, @site 140
      • 9am - *Hike Mecca Hills Pyramid -Nat Bridge Loop 5.9 mi. 585'. Hike leaders needed
      •  1pm - *4x4 trip, route ideas welcome, 4x4 leaders needed!
      •  6pm - Dinner on your own, or leftovers together, @Site 140
      •  7pm - Group campfire, @site 138, bring firewood

      Sunday March 15

      •  7am – Coffee and breakfast leftovers, @site 140

      •  11am - Check-out 

      * Check campground whiteboard for activities updates 

      Refunds: Cancellation for a refund, minus a $10 service charge, must be received by February 28, 2026.

      Campsite Amenities:  The Mecca Beach campground has portable toilets and one free solar shower (Mecca Beach) or showers that take quarters (New Camp, 5 miles to the north, $1.00), picnic tables, fire rings, shared drinking water and paved parking stalls. There is a small store on Highway 111 and markets in Mecca.

      Amenities for Tent Campers: This is a good campground for tent campers. The campsites are huge, level ,and sandy with trees that provide shade.  Sites are shared with another tent or an RV.  Parking is also shared between the two campers. If you want to share the space with another tent or a specific camper, send the Trip Leader an email and we will try and arrange it. 

      There are only four powered sites.  They have 20, 30 & 50 amp service. If you tent camp at a powered site you may be able to share power with an RV.  Bring a long outdoor extension cord, an outdoor splitter and a 30 amp RV male to 15/20 amp female adapter plug to give you flexibility in sharing power with an RV. 

      Climate: Average for March: 83° / 49°    U.S.Climate Data. March can be windy, rainy, and/or cold overnight.  Check the weather forecasts before the campout, so that you can be prepared for the weekend's weather conditions. 

      Amenities For RVs:  

      • RV Electric Sites – The RV powered sites have 20, 30 & 50 amp service, and water service. The RV sites will be shared with a tent or another RV. Bring a water hose splitter and a 50 to 30 amp adapter. The RV electric sites have a sewer connection. At the end of the campout, RV's should be able to dump at the dump station located at New Camp which is included in your registration fee. If you registered for a non-electric RV site, fresh water is available at the dump site to fill your RV tank before arriving at your site at the Mecca Beach campground.
      • RV Non-Electric Sites are dry camping sites – no hookups. QUIET HOURS are from 10 pm to 6 am and generators may only be operated between 10 am and 8 pm. See New Camp below for dump site information.
      • Maximum motor home length at Mecca Beach is 35 feet,
      • There are only four electric sites at Mecca Beach. If you require electric power and water there are electric sites at New Camp and Visitor Center sites located one mile north of Mecca Beach; if you choose to reserve your own site, you can register here as D1 'reserved your own site'.

      Directions:   The campground is located 30 miles south of Indio on Highway 111. Located on the north shore of the Salton Sea, it is about a three hour drive from the Los Angeles or San Diego areas. From Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east to Indio, take 86S exit then turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to the Salton Sea SRA Headquarters entrance. From San Diego take Highway 78 east, then left (north) on Highway 86 . Turn right at Avenue 66 and then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to the Salton Sea SRA Headquarters entrance. For a Google Map of our location - click here. 

      RV/Trailer Profile Information: We need information on your RV or pulled trailer in order to assign you a site you will fit into. Please enter or update your RV or Trailer information when you register.

      Pets: Dogs are allowed. Must be kept on 6' leash.  Please pick up after your pet and dispose of waste properly. Please be aware there are snakes, scorpions and coyotes at this location.  

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


      ***Firewood: you can get bundles cheaper at Grocery Outlet, than at the campground. Bundles at Grocery Outlet are $5.99/bundle.   The campground sells bundles that are $8-$10.  BUT, the money made from bundles at the campground support the park. 

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      • SD - Campout - Agua Caliente Regional Park

        • Fri, March 13, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Sun, March 15, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Agua Caliente County Park Campground, 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036
        • 14
        • 8 registrants
        Register

        Great Outdoors - San Diego

        Agua Caliente County Park

        March 13-15, 2026 - 2 Nights!

        Overview

        You're invited to join Great Outdoors San Diego (GOSD) for what's become our annual visit to Agua Caliente County Park to check out the wildflowers, which typically bloom there in early to mid-spring. Between the wildflowers, the amazing Agua Caliente campground (with showers and hot spring-fed pools), our not-to-be-missed nighttime search for scorpions by black light, the always-amazing Saturday night potluck, and a great group of campers, you won't want to miss this trip! If you are new to Great Outdoors, new to camping or maybe haven’t camped in a while, this is an excellent “starter” camping trip, given the excellent campground facilities and relative close proximity to urban San Diego.

        Our Campground

        Agua Caliente County Park is a 910 acre park with geothermally heated springs. The park is located just west of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in eastern San Diego County.

        Amenities at Agua Caliente include the soothing geothermal pools, coin-operated pay showers (50 cents in quarters per 4 minutes), flush toilets, potable water, shuffleboard and horseshoes, and a sun deck outside the pools for lounging. There is a small souvenir store nearby with very limited groceries, ice and firewood. The pools include an outdoor swimming pool, an outdoor wading pool for children, and an indoor 102 °F therapeutic spa.

        Trip pricing is based upon the type of site you choose and whether you’ll be sharing a tent or RV. RV sites have water, electricity, picnic table and a fire ring. A dump station is located within the park. Some sites may not be completely level - we suggest bringing leveling blocks. Depending upon the RV site, tow vehicles may have to park in a nearby site.

        The campground is near many excellent hiking trails and other locations to view desert wildflowers.

        Cancellation and Refunds

        You may cancel your reservation and receive a full refund up to 2 weeks before the trip start date. For this trip, the final cancellation date is February 28, 2025. Refunds will not be available after that date or on any registrations made within those 2 weeks of a trip start date, unless we can fill your spot with another camper.

        Directions

        Please carpool if you can and fill your gas tank well before arriving at camp since the nearest gas stations are in Borrego Springs (30 miles), Julian (33 miles), or Ocotillo (27 miles).

        Address: 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036

        From Ramona through Julian: East on State Highway 78 to Scissors Crossing then south 22 miles on Highway S2 to the park entrance.

        From Interstate 8: East on Interstate 8 and exit at Ocotillo, then 26 miles north on Highway S2 to the park entrance.

        Extra Vehicles and Fees

        Depending on what time you arrive, you may be asked to pay the extra vehicle fee if the allotted campsite parking spaces have already been filled. Please pay the fee and ask for a receipt and GOSD will reimburse you for the parking fee. Park regulations impose a limit of two (2) cars per campsite. Any additional vehicles must park in the designated overflow parking areas.

        Schedule

        Friday 3/13/25

        2 PM - Check in after 2 PM

        5 PM - “Happy hour” - Bring a snack to share and your favorite beverage. Some snacks and water will be provided. 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 or pools

        Saturday 03/15/25

        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. Some possibilities include Mud Caves, Domelands and Wind Caves, Ghost Mountain, Cold Canyon or other regional gems.

        3 PM - Time in the pools at camp

        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

        8 PM - Scorpion search by black light

        Sunday 03/16/25

        Breakfast - on your own

        9 AM - Time for another dip in the pools or a short hike - and packing and cleaning up the camp sites.

        12 PM - Check Out.

        Campground Rules and Regulations

        A complete listing of campground rules and regulations may be found here:

        http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2017_Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL.pdf

        Here are some of the more common rules:

        Pets - Are permitted if they are quiet, properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, restrained on a leash not longer than six feet, and attended at all times. Dogs are not allowed in cabins or on trails. There is a $1 per night fee for each pet, which is not included in your GOSD registration payment. It is payable upon check-in at the campground.

        Quiet Hours- 10 PM - 8 AM

        Campfires – Completely Extinguished by 11 PM

        Smoking- Is not allowed in Agua Caliente County Park.

        Alcohol - Alcoholic beverages are permitted provided the alcohol content does not exceed 20%.

        What to Bring
        Food
        Quarters for showers
        Camping/cooking gear
        Phone/camera charger
        Warm/cool weather clothing
        Potluck item for Saturday night
        Pool gear (towel, swimsuit and water shoes)
        Any prescription or other needed medications
        Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock, lip block)
        Soap and sponge for cleaning your reusable plate, utensils and cup/mug
        Your own reusable plate, utensils and mug/cup (No plates, utensils or cups will be provided)
        Camping chair

        One bundle of firewood (please no particle board, old furniture, plywood or construction materials, as these can release toxic gases when burned). The County Parks motto is buy it where you burn it and local firewood is generally available at the small general store near the campground’s entrance.

        Contact - If you have any questions not addressed by the information above or on our registration page, please feel free to contact the trip leaders:

        Matthew Schreiner ([email protected]m)

        *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.


        Cell Phone Service

        Is not available in the park, but can be found by driving a short distance from the campground.

        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.

        For full Agua Caliente County Park information - View the Agua Caliente County Park brochure or map at the following links:

        http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/AguaCalienteBrochure.pdf

        http://www.sdparks.org/content/dam/sdparks/en/pdf/BrochuresMiscellaneous/2016%20Agua_Caliente_Campground_Handout_FINAL_9_13_16.pdf

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      • PS - Hike: Cahuilla Peak Loop - SAVE THE DATE

        • Wed, March 18, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • Palm Springs, CA

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

        Description:

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

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

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

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

        Contact hike leader:  Tom W.

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

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

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


        Photos: (optional)

        Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels

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

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


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


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      • PS - Volunteer: Find Food Bank- Mar 18

        • Wed, March 18, 2026
        • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
        • 83775 Citrus Ave, Indio
        Register

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

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

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

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

        Wear comfortable closed toe, sturdy footwear.

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

        Contact hike leader:  H.L. Todd: EMAIL

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





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


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      • SD - Urban Walk/Social - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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

        SAN DIEGO SAFARI PARK/SOCIAL

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

        San Diego Zoo Safari Park - Wikipedia

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

        Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

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

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

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

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

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

        Cost: Self purchased membership/tickets required for entry

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



        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

        Show details

      • PS - Social - "Glow With Pride" Event - The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens - SAVE THE DATE

        • Tue, April 07, 2026
        • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
        • Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Palm Desert, CA

        The Living Desert and Zoo Gardens asked us to share this inaugural event with you.  

        The magical and immersive world of Glow in the Park will be dazzling in a whole new light during The Living Desert's inaugural pride event.  This fabulous night will feature the following:

        •    Mesmerizing, larger-than-life lanterns and stunning displays

        •    Dozens of interactive art installations and exciting surprises

        •   "Sequin Safari" theme. Bring your bling and dress to impress!

        •    LIVE entertainment with John Taylor and DJ Mod Girl

        •    See Bella da Ball, the Palm Springs hostess extraordinaire!

        •    A one-night-only silent disco

        •    Local community partners and LGBTQ-owned businesses

        •    The chance to explore the Zoo at night and visit some iconic animals 

        To obtain more information about the event and to purchase tickets, please click on the following link:

        LivingDesert.org/GlowWithPride 


        Our Chapter will have an exhibit table at the event where we will be able to provide information about our activities which will hopefully result in some new memberships for us.  A big thank you to Richard Dachman and Robert Varga for volunteering.

        For questions about the event, contact [email protected].

        Event Leader:  Pat M.



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      • SD - Baja Mexico 3-Day Expedition

        • Fri, April 10, 2026
        • 8:30 AM
        • Sun, April 12, 2026
        • 6:00 PM
        • Ensenada Region of Baja California
        • 1
        • 5 registrants
        Register


        3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION: 

        HIKING + NATURE + WINERIES + BAJA CUISINE

        April 10th-12th, 2026


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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

        HIKES EVERY DAY:

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


        Las Piedras Environmental Education Center


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


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


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

        TASTY BAJA FUSION DINING:

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

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

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



        EXPEDITION ITINERARY

        Three days/two nights, April 10-12

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

        Day 1: Friday, April 10

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

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

        10:00 Visit Tecate Community Museum

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

        1:00 Lunch at el Cafecito restaurant 


        2:30 Leave for Guadalupe Valley 


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


        4:45 Leave for the coast 


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


        7:00 Dinner along coast (Punta Morro)


        9:00 Return to our lodging


        Day 2: Saturday, April 11


        8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 

        9:00 Leave for hike

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

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


        1:30 Return trip to trailhead 


        3:00 Depart  


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

         

        6:00 Dinner at the Baja House (provided)


        7:00 Bonfire


        Day 3: Sunday, April 12


        8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 


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


        11:30 Pack up and leave the Baja House 


        12:00 Guadalupe valley, tour around


        1:00 Lunch in the valley (Bruma Winegarden)

        4:00 Leave for Tecate 

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


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





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



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      • SD - Campout - Mount Diablo State Park

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

        Mount Diablo State Park Campout

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

        View a full screen version

        Juniper Campground from the Moses Rock Ridge Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

        Equipment Needed: General camping gear

        Parking Information: 2 cars/site

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

        Pets Permitted: Yes, but not on trails.

        Who to Contact with Questions: Tyler Roosden @ 651.497.1611

        Juniper Campground

        Schedule

        Friday 4/10/26

        2 PM - Check in after 2 PM

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

        7 PM - Group campfire 

        Saturday 4/11/26

        Breakfast - on your own

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

        3 PM - Optional Hike pending interest.

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

        7 PM - Campfire

        Sunday 4/12/25

        Breakfast - on your own

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

        3 PM - Optional Hike pending interest.

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

        Monday 4/13/26

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

        12 PM - Check Out.

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

        1. Navigation

        2. Headlamp

        3. Sun Protection

        4. First Aid

        5. Knife

        6. Fire

        7. Shelter

        8. Extra food

        9. Extra water

        10. Extra clothes


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

        Show details

      • PS- Camping- CANCELLED- Lost Dutchman

        • Thu, April 16, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Mon, April 20, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Lost Dutchman Park 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

        CANCELLED

        Experience the Mystique of the Superstition Mountains! Join Great Outdoors Palm Springs for an unforgettable 4 nights desert camping experience at the base of the Superstition Mountains 40 miles east of Phoenix. This area is rich in local history and lore, including the legend of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. Explore these with us. 

        Attractions & Things to Do

        Easy to Moderate Hikes 

        Challenging Hikes

        • Siphon Draw Trail: A 4-mile (round trip) moderate hike winding into a canyon, with significant elevation gain.

        Nearby Excursions (Day Trips)

        • Apache Trail Drive (AZ-88): A historic, scenic drive offering stunning views of Canyon Lake and the rugged terrain (note: sections may be unpaved).
        • Goldfield Ghost Town: A reconstructed 1890s gold mining town near the park entrance, featuring mine tours, a saloon, and shops.
        • Canyon Lake: Located near the Apache Trail, this is a great spot for boat tours, kayaking, or simply enjoying the water views.
        • Boyce Thompson Arboretum: Located approximately 30 miles from camp. This is Arizona's largest and oldest botanical garden, showcasing desert plants from around the world. 

        Off Roading

        Directions: Lost Dutchman State Park is approximately 300 miles from Palm Spring via Interstate 10 East. Google Map.

        Arrival: Check-in for campers 2pm and 3pm for cabin. Park entrance gate closes at 10:00 p.m. and reopens at 6:00 a.m. Campers can leave at any time but there is no re entry until 6:00 a.m. Please make every effort to arrive prior to 10:00 p.m. If you will not  be able to arrive prior to 10:00 p.m. please call 480-982-4485 before 3:00 p.m. to make arrangements.

        Campers: RV and tent will share a site. If you are second to arrive for the shared site, there will be an extra parking charge of $15 per day. Please pay it, and bring the receipt to trip leader for reimbursement. There will be 2 vehicles on the site, park accordingly to make room for second vehicle. RV will need to be parked adjacent to the hook-ups, so park accordingly. Park with all 4 wheels on the pavement. Sites are large, 75' to 100'. Restroom, free showers and dump station located nearby.

        What to Bring: Name tag, camp chair, camping/cooking gear,10 essential items, warm/cool weather clothing, appetizer for meet and greet, potluck item and firewood for group fire. Consider going green! - Please bring your own plates, cups, mugs, eating utensils. No shade at campsites, so plan accordingly if you want to bring a shade structure.

        Pets: Pets are welcome, leashed and picked up after.

        Weather/Climate: Elevation of 2,074 feet. April 85° / 53°  It is a dry month. Sunrise 5:54 am, Sunset 6:58 pm. Moon will be waning crescent, April 16th, new moon is 17th.  Weather click here.

        Payments: Pay online with a credit card.

        Registration: Events are limited to members only. If not currently a GO member, you can join for $25 per person for a one (1) year membership prior to registration. Each person going must complete a separate registration. For membership: click here to join. 

        Cancellation/Refunds: Cancellation for RV and tent camping, minus $10 fee, must be received by April 01, 2026. Notify the trip leader to cancel. Cancellation/refund for cabin registrations, see below.

        If you have any questions, contact Trip Co-Leaders: Cliff C. Click Here & Scott Click Here

        RV and Tent Sites


        Our sites offer electric hookups (50/30/20-amp service) and water.  Each site includes a picnic table and a fire pit equipped with an adjustable grill gate. There is a dump station no extra cost.



        Itinerary 

         Subject to change - check whiteboard for updates/details

        Thursday ~ April 16

        • 2:00 pm until 10 pm ~ Arrive - Gate is locked at 10 pm
        • 6:30 pm ~ Meet and Greet ~ Site #75
        • 7:30 pm ~ campfire

        Friday ~ April 17 ~ New Moon Tonight 

        • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits
        • 8:30 am ~ Day’s Activities
        • Local Hiking 
        • 4x4 off-roading
        • 6:30 pm ~ Potluck
        • 7:30 pm ~ campfire            

        Saturday ~ April 18

        • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits
        • 8:30 am ~ Day’s Activities
        • Boyce Thompson Arboretum
        • Local Hiking
        • 6:30 Dining in Town (Optional) ~ Time and place TBD
        • 7:30 pm ~ Campfire

          Sunday ~ April 19

        • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels, and Fruits
        • 8:30 am ~ Day’ Actives
        • Local Hike ~ on your own
        • Dining in Town (Optional) ~ Time and place TBD
        • 7:30 pm ~ Campfire

          Monday ~ April 20

        • 7:00 am ~ Coffee, Muffins, Bagels and Fruits

        Cabin Details

        • For cabin campers arriving between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., this will be considered a grace period, and no additional park entrance fees will be charged or applied. Cabin may not be available until 3pm.
        • Upon arrival at the park the gatehouse attendant will check you in and direct you to your cabin. Each vehicle must have a permit displayed, maximum two vehicles per cabin (2nd vehicle may be assessed a  $15/night fee). If arriving after the gatehouse closes, proceed to your cabin and check in at the gatehouse in the morning. Occupants of the cabin are responsible to pay for any additional parking fees ($15 per day). Extra parking for 3rd vehicle at a cabin is located at designated overflow parking.
        • Your cabin access code will be sent to you in a reminder email about a week prior to the event.
        • The cabins have beds with mattresses, but no linens. Please bring your own linens or sleeping bags, pillows etc.
        • Smoking and open flames are not permitted in the cabins.
        • Campfires are restricted to on site above ground metal fire pits with cooking grill. All fires must be kept small, attended at all times and doused thoroughly when done. No "rock" fire rings allowed. Propane cook stoves are allowed for cooking meals.
        • Cooking is not permitted in the cabins or on the porch with the exception of the use of a personal crock-pot or coffee pot.
        • No pets are allowed in the cabins or in the cabin area.
        • Cabins have electricity, lighting, heating and cooling but, no plumbing. Restrooms and showers are located nearby. Dishes can be washed in the sinks behind the restroom building. Quiet hours are from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Please make sure to leave the cabin clean, undamaged and remove all trash (dumpsters are provided in the park).
        • Maximum capacity of the cabin will be 3 or possibly 4.
        • Confirmation of the cabin depends on meeting the minimum registration of 3 persons in the cabin, subject to cancellation and full refund if we do not meet minimum registration.
        • No refund for cabin registration unless there is a waitlist; if a refund is issued a $10 service fee applies.

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


        Show details

      • OCLB - Atlantis All-Gay Mexican Cruise! 2026!

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


        Great Outdoors OCLB

        Special Cruise Ship Tour Event!

        Calling All Enthusiastic Travel Lovers!


        Logo for Atlantis Events



        An Incredible All-Gay Experience

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


        Great Outdoors OCLB

        is organizing an

         Logo for Atlantis Events


        Mexican cruise which will go to 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.  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.  

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

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


        Mexico’s Best Beaches. And More.

        We are excited!  Are you?

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

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

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


        Everything Included. For Nothing.

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

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

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

        Lance being an Atlantis Alumni has registered for the cruise.

        Contact Lance if you have any questions at:

        [email protected]


        We are ready to do it again!  

        Join us!

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


        Photos from the Iceland Cruise:

        In Norway meeting new friends.


        Viewing our ship below!

        Chowing down and Cheers to you!



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

        Photo of us in Memphis - Beale Street!


        At the Tina Turner Museum

        Ready to board our bus to experience another amazing day!


        In New Orleans!



        Show details

      • SD - Social - Paragliding Adventure

        • Sun, April 26, 2026
        • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
        • Torrey Pines Glider Port - 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
        • 14
        • 1 registrant
        Register

        SD - Torrey Pines Gliderport Paragliding

        Paragliding and Hang Gliding | Torrey Pines Gliderport

        With nearly 100 years of flying history, the Torrey Pines Gliderport is the most historic aviation site in North America, and Southern California’s premiere location for paragliding, hang gliding, remote control models and sailplanes. The Gliderport provides a world class flying site, flight lessons, certifications, tandem 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 [email protected]


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

        Show details

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

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

        OCLB- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park &

        Hawaii Big Island Day Hikes

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

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

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

        Registration: Limited to Great Outdoors members

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

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

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

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

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

        Important information

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

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

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

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

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



        Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

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

        Questions?

        Email Michael at [email protected]

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





















        Show details

      • SBVC - Morro Bay SP: City Carshow - SAVE THE DATE

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

        Cruisin’ Morro Bay 2026

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

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

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

        Show details

      • PS - Hike - Jane's Hoffbrau Oasis & Eagle Canyon - SAVE THE DATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

        Contact Hike Leader:  Pat M. 

           

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




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      • SD - Baja Mexico 3-Day Expedition

        • Fri, May 15, 2026
        • 8:30 AM
        • Sun, May 17, 2026
        • 6:00 PM
        • Ensenada Region of Baja California
        • 3
        • 3 registrants
        Register


        3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION: 

        HIKING + NATURE + WINERIES + BAJA CUISINE

        May 15th-17th, 2026


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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

        HIKES EVERY DAY:

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


        Las Piedras Environmental Education Center


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


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


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

        TASTY BAJA FUSION DINING:

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

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

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



        EXPEDITION ITINERARY

        Three days/two nights, April 10-12

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

        Day 1: Friday, May 15

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

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

        10:00 Visit Tecate Community Museum

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

        1:00 Lunch at el Cafecito restaurant 


        2:30 Leave for Guadalupe Valley 


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


        4:45 Leave for the coast 


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


        7:00 Dinner along coast (Punta Morro)


        9:00 Return to our lodging


        Day 2: Saturday, May 16


        8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 

        9:00 Leave for hike

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

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


        1:30 Return trip to trailhead 


        3:00 Depart  


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

         

        6:00 Dinner at the Baja House (provided)


        7:00 Bonfire


        Day 3: Sunday, May 17

        8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House (provided) 


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


        11:30 Pack up and leave the Baja House 


        12:00 Guadalupe valley, tour around


        1:00 Lunch in the valley (Bruma Winegarden)

        4:00 Leave for Tecate 

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


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





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



        Show details

      • OCLB - Yosemite National Park 2026 Spring - Curry Village

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


        OCLB Annual Yosemite Trip!


        Heaven On Earth!

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

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

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

        Orange County/Long Beach

        goes to 

        Yosemite National Park

        Curry Village Canvas Tents

        May 15-18, 2026

        Need we say more?

         Yes we will! 

        Spring in Yosemite can't be beat!

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

        These events get sold out to capacity each year!

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


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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

        More details will be announced as we finalize registration.

        Canvas Tents:

        We have secured four canvas tents for our group.  

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

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

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

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




         Driving & Directions:

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

        What else?

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




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

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


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

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

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

        •Layered under gear (long underwear, etc.)

        •Hat, gloves, scarf, etc.

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

        •Sturdy hiking shoes 


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

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





        Price: 

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

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

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

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

        Trip Leader: Lance Whitmier



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

        Lance can be contacted at:

        [email protected]

        Photos: Previous OCLB Yosemite Treks

        We have a great, fun time! Join us!











          

         

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      • CORP- All Chapter Jamboree - Save the Date!

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


        ALLCHAPTER JAMBOREE

        SAVE THE DATE

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





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      • SBVC- DAY WALK: PISMO BEACH CLASSIC CAR SHOW- SAVE THE DATE

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

        DAY WALK: PISMO BEACH CLASSIC CAR SHOW

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

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

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

        WHERE TO PARK: TBD

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

        Show details

      • PS- Camping - Guajome Regional Park - Save The Date

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

        This event is being planned by Palm Springs Chapter.d For more information about this trip:

        • Please check back here for updates; or
        • Please contact our PS Chapter VPO - via email: [email protected]




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      • SD - Camping - Free Membership Campout @ Mount Laguna

        • Thu, July 09, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Sun, July 12, 2026
        • 11:00 AM
        • 32° 53' 15.0000" N 116° 26' 26.9999" W
        • 20
        Register

        GOSD Free Membership Campout!

        Laguna Mountains: Horse Heaven Campground


        Description

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

        Facilities

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

        Natural Features

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

        Recreation

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



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

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

        Parking - Parking at Horse Heaven.

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

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

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

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

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

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

        Potluck (including ideas)

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

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

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

        Main hike - Mount Laguna Lakes

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

        Camp leader - Jeremiah O’Neal

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

        Supplies (What to bring)

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

        listed, however, some important items will.

        ● Tent

        ● Sleeping bag

        ● Warm long-sleeve/pants clothes

        ● Cool clothing

        ● Camp chair

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

        ● Plates (Unless someone can provide plates)

        ● Hiking shoes

        ● Suntan lotion

        ● A water bottle

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

        ● Matches (if you plan to cook anything)

        Weekend Schedule

        Thursday, July 9

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

        6:00 PM Evening Meet & Greet

        7:00 PM Evening Group Dinner and Bonfire

        Friday, July 10

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

        8:30AM Hike: Big Laguna lake

        Anytime Lunch (on own)

        Around 6:45PM - Evening Potluck

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

        Saturday, July 11

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

        8AM - 24 bagels & cream cheese.

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

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

        5:30PM Hike: Big Laguna lake

        Evening Group Dinner (bring own)

        Along with dinner, Storytelling/Bonfire

        Sunday, July 12

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

        11:00 AM Must Leave Camp

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

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

        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

        Show details

      • PS - Camping - Idyllwild Regional Park - SAVE THE DATE

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

        SAVE THE DATE (these are notes from a previous trip, look for updates in the weeks to come)

        Experience the cool mountain star-lit sky among conifer forest camping at Idyllwild Regional Park. This is a great summer mid-week excursion where you will find an uncrowded campground surrounded by mountain pines and vegetation. Three nights of camping, hiking and exploring the village shops and restaurants.

        Sunday, July 10

        • 2:00 pm - Check-in
        • 4:00 Sunset hike to meadow  
        • 6:00 pm - Meet and greet BYOB. Dinner on your own
        • 7:00 pm - Group activities 

        Monday, July 11

        • 7:00 am - Coffee, snacks & fruit
        • 9:00 am - Hike to Nature Center *
        • 2:00 pm - Hike *
        • 6:00 pm - Potluck dinner-bring a dish to share
        • 7:00 pm - Group activities and bingo

        Tuesday, July 12

        • 7:00 am - Coffee, snacks & fruit
        • 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 activities

        Wednesday, July 13

        •  12:00 pm - Check out

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

        You must be a Great Outdoors (GO) member in order to attend this event.  This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated and abide by the GOPS 4/26/2022 COVID policy - CLICK HERE  

        Amenities: Restrooms have flush toilets, 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 pretty flat and without much shade. Tent campers will share the site with an RV. Restroom and showers are located uphill of the campsites.

        Amenities For RVs:  There are no services for RVs at the campsites.  There is a dump site located nearby at Lake Hemet.  Generators may be operated between 7 am and 10 pm.

        What to Bring: Ten Essentials, camp chair, daypack for hiking, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool/wet weather clothing, quarters for showers. Bring a dish to share at the potluck dinner. The are water spigots located in the camp.  Campfires are currently not allowed in the campground during our stay. 

        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.

        Website:  IDYLLWILD REGIONAL PARK

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

        Parking: Campsites are shared between RVs and tents.  When you register let us know if you are bringing a tow vehicle or a second vehicle so we can consider that when assigning sites. The additional vehicle may need to park in overflow parking, at the park entrance.

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

        Photos:  Click Here

        Prices: are based upon each person going being a GO Chapter paid member. You can join - click here - and then register for this campout. Each person going must complete a separate registration. We do this so each registrant acknowledges our liability waiver condition.

        Payment:  You can pay with the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. You must complete the registration and payment within 15 minutes or your registration will be cancelled.

        Refunds: Cancellation must be received by June 28 for full refund.

        Contact: Trip Co-Leaders:  Dennis Curran and Dale Solomon

         

        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.


        Show details

      • PS - Camping Either Barton Flats or Heart Bar - SAVE THE DATE

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




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

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

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

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

        Select your registration that conforms to the following definitions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

        Schedule Of Events

        Friday, Mar 17

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

        Saturday, Mar 18

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

        Sunday, Mar 19

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

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

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

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

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

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

        What to Bring:  Ten Essentials, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, shorts for kayaking, potluck item for Saturday night, two bundles of firewood - no particle board, old furniture, plywood or construction materials. These cause the release of toxic gases when burned. Firewood is for sale at the campground. 

        Don't forget your towel, swim suit and water shoes.

        We recommend you read our suggested 10 essential items to bring - click here. 

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

        Directions: (sample 1)  I-10 east to Indio, take 86-S exit then turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111.  Go south about 13 miles to the Mecca Beach campground. For a Google Map of our location - click here.  <<< fix link

        Getting There: (sample 2)

        • Address:  39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849, Julian, CA 92036
        • GPS Coordinates: 32°57'02.1"N 116°18'16.4"W or 32.950581, -116.304558
        • Google - Map Link: click here   <<< fix link 
        • Be sure to carpool if you can and fill your gas tank before heading to camp because the nearest gas is in Borrego Springs (30 miles) or Julian (33 miles).

        Climate & Elevation - The current forecast avg. is 67 high 42 low.  Check the weather forecast - click here.  The park is located at 1300’.  <<< fix link

        Refunds: Cancellation for a full refund minus service fee of $5.00 must be received by March 14, 2017.

        Payments: We are no longer using PayPal to accept trip registrations.  You may now use any of these credit cards:  MC, VISA, Discover or Amex. 

        Contact: Scott C. email: [email protected]

        Photos: To see some photos from prior trips to XYZ location  - click here.  <<< fix link

        Quiet Hours - 10 PM - 7 AM

        Smoking - is not allowed in San Diego County Parks.

        Cell Service - not in the park but may available nearby.  Details for specific carriers?

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

        Special COVID Related Requirements: This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated.

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

        © 1981 - 2022 CALIFORNIA GREAT OUTDOORS, INC., a 501(c)7 not-for-profit, all-volunteer LGBTQA+ organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.  Privacy policy

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      • PS- Camping - GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK - Save The Date

        • Thu, September 10, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Sun, September 13, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

        SAVE THE DATE.   

        GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

        SOUTH RIM 


        This event is being planned by Palm Springs Chapter. For more information about this trip:

        • Please check back here for updates; or
        • Please contact our PS Chapter VPO - via email: [email protected]




        Show details

      • SBVC - Flying Club / Primetimers BBQ - SAVE THE DATE

        • Sat, September 12, 2026
        • 5986 Sandspit Road, Goleta, CA 93117

        Flying Club / Primetimers BBQ

        Fire up the grill, let's make some noise,
        Burgers, dogs, and happy joys!
        Good food, good friends, a perfect day,
        Come hang with us, don't delay! 


        WHEN: Sept 12, 2026 @ TBD

        WHERE: Goleta Beach Park

        *Registration is not open at this time. More info to follow...*



        Show details

      • SD - Urban Walk/Social - San Diego Zoo

        • Sat, September 19, 2026
        • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
        • 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA 9210
        • Be the first
        Register

        SAN DIEGO ZOO HIKE/SOCIAL

        Join us at the zoo!. This year we will be hiking through the famous San Diego Zoo on Sat Sept 19th @ 10:00am. We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance. Tickets/membership should be purchased prior to the event. If this is an event you would like to participate in but cannot access it due to finances, please reach out to KJ Archer at [email protected]

        San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Ticket, No Reservations Required! 2022

        Details: We will hike through the park to the far end and take a different path back to the entrance

        Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

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

        Meeting Location: 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA

        92101 https://maps.app.goo.gl/brG2rRmm333248LC9

        Meeting Date & Time: Sat Sept 19th @ 10:00am inside the front entrance at the map stand - We will plan to leave from the inside of the park entrance at 10:15am.

        Parking: Ample parking available.

        Cost: Self purchased membership/tickets required for entry

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


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

        Show details

      • SBVC - Lake Lopez: AG Harvest Festival - SAVE THE DATE

        • Thu, September 24, 2026
        • 4:00 PM
        • Sun, September 27, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • 6800 Lopez Drive, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

        Lake Lopez - Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival

        The Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival is a local favorite event that features everything from entertainment to food, scarecrow and baking contests, games for the kids, movie night, and so much more! This family-friendly event highlights the best of Arroyo Grande and its neighboring communities.  

        When: Sept 24 - 27, 2026 @ TBD

        *Registration is not open yet at this time. More info to follow...*

        Show details

      • SD - Sale - San Diego Pride TShirts! (2022-2025)

        • Tue, October 20, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Online Sales
        Register

        Great Outdoors San Diego T-Shirt Sales

        Please select from the 4 options below for you San Diego Pride T-Shirt. These will have the year that the design was featured, and in the same color from their associated year (2021-2025). Price is $30 with shipping included with your order! The above Great Outdoors Pride logo is featured on the front of the shirts, with the year specific design on the back.

        2022 Design (Aqua Blue Color Shirt):


        2023 Design (Mauve Color Shirt):


        2024 Design (Olive Green Color Shirt):

        2025 Design (Peri Blue Color Shirt):

        2025 Conference Historic Designs:

        Shipping Information: We will be as expeditious as possible in our shipping! If you haven't gotten word of your shipping timeline 2 weeks after your order, please follow up with Tyler Roosden at [email protected]

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

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


        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

        Show details

      • SD - Urban Walk/Social - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

        • Sun, November 15, 2026
        • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
        • 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
        • Be the first
        Register

        SAN DIEGO SAFARI PARK/SOCIAL

        This year we will be hiking through the famous San Diego Safari Park on Sunday Nov 15th @ 10:00am. We will hike through the park in its entirety including taking a ride on the Africa Tram. Tickets/membership should be purchased prior to the event. If this is an event you would like to participate in but cannot access it due to finances, please reach out to KJ Archer at [email protected]

        San Diego Zoo Safari Park - Wikipedia

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

        Host: KJ Archer (619-214-6353)

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

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

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

        Meeting Date & Time: Sunday Nov 15th @ 10:00am inside the front entrance at the map stand - We will plan to leave from the inside of the park entrance at 10:15am.

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

        Cost: Self purchased membership/tickets required for entry

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



        Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement

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

        Show details

      • PS - Dos Picos County Park Campout-SAVE THE DATE

        • Sun, November 22, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • Wed, November 25, 2026
        • 12:00 PM
        • Ramona, CA

        • Dos Picos County Park Trip Notes

          Dos Picos County Park is located in Ramona, California. Its name is Spanish for "two peaks," derived from the two prominent mountains nearby. The surrounding ranch land and steep rocky slopes help preserve its secluded atmosphere.

          This park is known for its magnificent Oak trees.  The landscape is a mixture of chaparral, open grassland, and oak woodland. Coyote, fox, possum, skunk, and raccoon are all seen in the park regularly.

          The city of Ramona is minutes away when driving.  You may purchase food and other supplies there.

          Maximum RV length is 40 feet.  All sites have E/W. Several sites will be dedicated as tent sites.  These sites can have three tents, max and two cars.  The water spigots at these sites are unique.  It is housed in a plastic box that sits below ground level.  

          Tent campers, all the sites are gravel.   Your tent will likely be pitched on gravel.  Please bring blow-up mattresses or cots to sleep on, so you are not sleeping on gravel.  Tents should also bring extension cords. 

          At each site there is room for an RV and tow vehicle, or two vehicles.  Extra vehicles can park in the overflow lot for a total of $9, which is paid by GOPS.  The overflow parking lot is NOT close.  It’s located on the opposite side of the campground from our sites, so car camping would NOT be a good choice, please bring a tent.

          Leashed dogs are welcome at $1/night/dog.  Campers will pay for their own dogs upon check-in at the campground. 

          Sites 63 & 69 are ADA sites.  If you have an ADA placard, please let the trip leader know.   

          We will have access to the indoor pavilion and its outdoor picnic area.  It is located in the middle of all our sites.  There is a massive fire pit. The use of that pavilion and its outdoor space was an additional cost that was figured into the cost of this campout.  Typical weather in this area in November is high 73, low 42.

          Cancellation policy: cancel for full refund minus a $10 fees on or before Nov 10th, 2024.

          Dos Picos County Park Campground

          17953 Dos Picos Park Road

          Ramona, CA 92065

          (760) 789-2220 

          Trip Leader Contact: Robert Varga

        • [email protected]

        • (760) 641-9112 text messages only

        Dos Picos Campout Schedule of Events

        Disclaimer: the following schedule is tentative and could change without notice. Check-in and Check-out are set in stone, no changing those.

        Sunday, November 24

        • 2:00 pm - Check-in (please don't arrive early)
        • 6:00 pm – Meet and Greet, in the Pavilion, bring finger food to share if you want.  
        • 7:00 pm – Dinner on your own, but you’ll probably be satiated from grazing the finger food, so join the group fire early!
        • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

        Monday, November 25

        • 7:00 am – coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and a PUMPKIN PANCAKES AND EGGS breakfast in the Pavilion!
        • 10:00 am – local hike somewhere close by
        • 1:00 pm – activity on your own or impromptu group activity
        • 6:00 pm – PotLuck dinner in the Pavilion. 
        • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

        Tuesday, November 26

        • 7:00 am – Coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and continental breakfast items in the Pavilion
        • 10:00 am – local hike somewhere close by
        • 1:00 pm – Special for us: tour and wine tasting of a local vineyard owned by an x-GOSD member and his husband. pocomontana.com
        • 5:00 pm – dinner on your own
        • 6:30 pm - Raffle!!!  $5/ticket or 5 tickets for $20;  see the prize display in the Pavillon. 
        • 8:00 pm - group fire, please bring firewood, $6/bundle at the park

        Wednesday, November 27

        • 7:00 am – Coffee by our Bombastic Barista, Mike and continental breakfast items in the Pavilion
        • 9:00 am - pack up and clean up, say our tearful goodbyes
        • 12:00 pm - Check out

        Have a GREAT Thanksgiving!!







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