Yosemite National Park Campout
(Date TBD) June ??, 2023
Save the date! More information coming soon.
San Mateo Peak Day Hike
Trip Leader: Doug Cable E-Mail : dccable2@verizon.net
Next week’s last minute day hike will be June 7 th, to San Mateo Peak in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness.
We will start at the true trailhead for the Morgan Trail on S Main Divide Road, at 09:00. It is best reached from I15. Drive up the 74 from Lake Elsinore, and S Main Divide Road will be the first left turn. The trailhead is 2.8 miles from the turn on the right and is well marked with a picnic table, and across the street from a spectacular view. There is a small dirt parking area but also street parking. A National Forest Adventure Pass or a National Park Pass is needed to park. Click here for a map of the trailhead parking lot.
The round-trip distance is 4.4 to 4.7 miles if we just go out and back. The peak is 3591’, the elevation gain is 950’. It will take about 2.5 hours. We will stay together as there are some tricky turns at the start. The views from the peak are spectacular. Depending on how we feel at the peak, we can retrace our steps, or add about 1.5 miles to the total and do a loop. The loop is better.
This is Wilderness Area so no mountain bikes are allowed. Rattlesnakes are allowed but may be dozing as it's so cool.
Wear sunscreen; bring a hat, plenty of water and a snack. Have your ten essentials. No dogs.
Pictured: Doug surrounded by wild flowers in the same vicinity of Morgan Trail.
Mount Baldy!
Here We Come!
Sunday - June 11, 2023 @ 7:30 AM
Optional Afterward: After an exhilarating day, we will head to
Blaze Pizza in Claremont
to whet our appetite with Pizza and Beer or Soda ($ out of your pocket). And for those craving a sweet something to take home,
"I Like Pie Bakeshop'
is down the street with awesome, delicious individually sized made from scratch pies of a variety of flavors.
Triple yummy!
Pictured 2022: Early morning start to Mt. Baldy!
Photos: And away we go - merrily on our way to the green ski hut! Photo from previous GO Mt Baldy hike.
Come with us to San Antonio aka Mount Baldy, the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. We will be leaving from the trailhead at Manker Flats north of the Mount Baldy Village. You will need an Adventure Pass or a National Parks Pass to park. The hike will leave at 7:30 AM.
If coming from the west on the 210, exit Baseline Rd. and turn left at the first signal and then right on Padua. Then right on Mt. Baldy Rd. When you come to Manker Flats (the road has a median there, drive to near the end of the median), you can find parking along the road. If you arrive at the ski area, you have gone too far.
From Manker Flats, we will follow the mountain road to San Antonio Falls which flows year round - if you call a 'trickle' a flow. Continuing on the road, at six tenths of a mile, we will hit the trail up through San Antonio Canyon. Our next stop will be the Sierra Club's ski hut. After a rest there, we will continue across a rocky area, and then climb up the canyon to a ridge. From there, we will have a steep climb to the summit at 10,064 feet.
Pictured 2022: Made it to the Green Ski Hut; taking a break before continuing to the top.
Pictured 2022: After a short break at the Green Ski Hut, the trek continues!
Pictured: Lance, Frederick, Rob, Richard and Rick taking a break prior to tackling the last part of ascending Mt. Baldy! Photo from a previous GO Mt. Baldy hike.
On a clear day, it is possible to see as far as the Channel Islands, Mount San Gorgonio, Mount San Jacinto, the Santa Monica Mountains, and far out into the desert.
Pictured 2022: Yep, Lance we are above the clouds!
Pictured 2022: Finally at the top!
Pictured 2022: And this is the way down.
At the summit, we will enjoy the views. People can eat the lunches that they have brought for the hike. After lunch, we will descend via the Devil's Backbone trail. This is a spectacular trail that descends to the Mount Baldy Ski Area. The trail is a narrow spine with dramatic drop offs on both sides.
Pictured 2022: The troupe start to make our way down the Devil's Backbone. Photo doesn't look steep but it is!
Pictured 2022: Looking back toward the Top of Mount Baldy from Devil's Backbone.
When we reach the Mount Baldy Ski Area lodge, we have a choice to hike down the ski area access road or opt to take the ski chair lift down to our cars at Manker Flats. Total gain/loss is 3,900 feet. Total mileage is 11.25 miles.
Pictured 2022: Robert happy to have accomplished the Mount Baldy Hike!Pictured 2022: Claudia & Cesar accomplished the Mount Baldy Hike!
Pictured 2022: Rob accomplished the Mount Baldy Hike (again & again)!
Pictured 2022: Wenta accomplished the Mount Baldy Hike!
This is a STRENUOUS hike.
Where my Bad Boyz/Gurlz at?
Think you tuff?
Prove it!
Pictured 2022: Feeling content after some pizza and suds!
An Adventure Pass or a National Parks Pass is required for parking. For Information, click here. Your trip leader will be checking people's supplies to be certain that you are prepared for the hike. There is no fee for this hike.
Carpooling: As the date gets closer, we will connect people to recommend carpooling as parking can be difficult. And of course we appreciate carpoolers!
Bring: Ten Essentials, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing depending on the weather/temperature, sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and hiking poles will 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.
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
Clear any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.
Trip Leader: Lance Whitmier
President-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org
Lance states: I am always excited to ascend to Mt. Baldy as it is indeed a workout! However it is extremely satisfying to reach the top and enjoy the glory of conquering the summit along with others! One of my favorite hikes - come join us in this adventure. As a bonus the views are spectacular!
This event is being planned by Palm Springs Chapter.d For more information about this trip:
Escape the summer heat by taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to an elevation of more than 8,500 feet to hike in the Mt. San Jacinto Wilderness. Temperatures at the tram’s Mountain Station can be 30 degrees cooler, so check at https://www.pstramway.com/weather/ before you leave home to determine how to dress.
Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (2 to 3 liters recommended), trail snacks/ lunch. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Hiking poles may be helpful.
Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.
Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
You must be a Great Outdoors (GO) member in order to attend this event.
Special COVID Requirements: This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated. For more information - see the GOPS COVID Vaccination policy dated 4/26/2022 (click here).
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.
Upper Rock Creek Trailhead Backpack (Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead)
June 23 - 27, 2023
June in the Sierras is the opening of the Summertime backpacking window with a chance to visit magnificent alpine environs. This trip is a 5-day 24-mile loop hike, starting from Horseshoe Meadows along the Cottonwood Lakes trail, up over New Army Pass to Upper Rock Creek, then proceeding along the PCT to Chicken Spring Lake, and return to the trailhead on the Cottonwood Pass trail.
This trip is limited to 6 hikers plus the 2 co-leaders. Permit slots will be filled on a first-come-first-served basis. All others will be added to a waiting list.
You must contact the trip leader directly if you are interested in participating. The trip leader will send you the registration form after confirming that you are qualified as fit for the activity. This trip is rated as “moderate” because of elevations exceeding 11,000 feet. Altitude effects can significantly impact a hiker's ability and altitude sickness is a real risk. Some sections such as ascending New Army Pass may be considered as “strenuous” by some hikers. It is “non-technical”.
Contact either trip Leader: Doug Cable dccable2@verizon.net, or Larry Purtle lvpurtle@hotmail.com
Please be aware that you are not registered for this backpack trip until the trip leader has determined you are qualified, and you have completed and submitted the registration form and payment of $40. The registration form needs to be returned to the trip leader and payment made within 7 days of receiving the registration form or the trip leader will contact the next person on the waiting list and you will forfeit your spot.
You may cancel at any time up until June 1, 2023 and your fee will be refunded. There will be NO refunds after June 1, 2023, unless the Trip Leader decides to significantly alter the trip due to weather or safety considerations.
The higher elevations are likely to have snow so you have to ensure that you bring appropriate clothing and microspikes and large baskets for your poles. (yes, you have a large basket already)
Sorry, no pets.
Although not part of the official trip, it is essential to drive up on Thursday 6/22 and camp at Horseshoe Meadows Campground near Cottonwood Pass Trailhead, to acclimatize better to the altitude of about 10,000 feet and rest up for the hike the next day. Diamox prescription medicine is HIGHLY recommended for 3 days prior to avoid altitude sickness.
Click here for an overview map of the backpack.
6/23, Day 1: Hike 5.3 miles from Horseshoe Meadows to S Fork Lakes 5.3 miles, to 11,073’ elevation. Depending on how we feel, we may go on to Long Lake or High Lake in preparation for ascending New Army Pass on day 2.
6/24, Day 2: we will ascend New Army Pass, 12,300’. It has rocky switchbacks that proceed from the South Lakes basin to above the tree line with outstanding views. Our destination will be Upper Rock Creek. It is 6.5 miles from the S Fork Lakes. We can stop early at Soldier Lakes if necessary.
6/25, Day 3: we will go to Chicken Spring Lake 11,258’. 6 miles.
6/26, Day 4: rest day at Chicken Spring Lake. We will look for the chicken, or do day hikes to explore the area
6/27, Day 5: Return to Horseshoe Meadows and the trailhead along the Cottonwood Pass trail.
Key distances and altitudes
Day
Location
Distance
Altitude
0
Cotton Wood Lakes Trailhead
10,080 ft
1
Long Lake
6 miles
11,160 ft
2
New Army Pass
8.2 miles
12,300 ft
Soldier Lake
11.7 miles
10,800 ft
Upper Rock Creek Campsite
12.7 miles
10,450 ft
3 & 4
Chicken Spring Lake
19 miles
11,258 ft
5
Cottonwood Pass
19.9 miles
11,000 ft
Trailhead
24 miles
You will need your ten essentials and appropriate backpacking gear. Click here for the list. Carpooling is recommended to reduce fuel costs and vehicle emissions.
Torrey Pines, Guy Fleming, EB Scripps Overlook, Red Butte and Razor Point Loop
When: Sat, June 24, 2023
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location:12580 N Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037
Meet:The lower parking lot by stairs leading to trail
Google Maps:https://goo.gl/maps/3SmX4JdEmk1t2feU8
Enjoy this 3.7-mile loop trail near La Jolla, California. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 30 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and trail running.
Length: 3.7 mi
Low Tide: 8:20 AM (some tide pools may be visible during our hike)
Elevation: 439 ft
Route type: Loop
Hike Leader: Leo Burkhart - lenburk@pacbell.net
Phone
Orange County/Long Beach Chapter of Great Outdoors presents:
DAY HIKES IN THE CALIFORNIA STATE AND NATIONAL REDWOOD PARKS
Trip Leader: Doug Cable, Phone: 949-922-1452, Email: Secretary-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org
We will do a series of day hikes in the California State and National Redwood Forests. We will be based out of Orick, CA in beautiful Humbolt County. Make your housing reservations now.
The series of day hikes will begin at the easy level and progress to the moderate level. No day hike will exceed 12 miles. The itinerary will be by group consensus. Some hikes require reservations; the trip leader will take care of reservations. We can even split into 2 different groups, easy and moderate, if participants wish.
You will need your usual 10 essentials for day hikes. Altitude will not be a problem. Be prepared for possible mosquitoes and rain.
We will arrive July 12 and depart July 19th. The trip is limited to 12 attendees including the trip leader. $20 covers logistics.
As the initial meeting and some dinner meetings may be indoors, participants will need to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccinations. This means 2 primary shots and a bivalent booster.
Join Great Outdoors San Diego at the San Diego Pride Parade!
Come join GOSD and march in the 2023 San Diego Pride Parade!
Formed in 1974 as a sponsored program of The Center for Social Services, the organization produced the first Lesbian and Gay Parade in San Diego to celebrate the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion on New York’s Christopher Street. San Diego Pride incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1994, and today it continues to bring together the skills, talents, and visions of our diverse community through numerous programs.
San Diego Pride raises funds primarily through festival ticket and beverage sales, and through sponsorships, and exhibitor fees. These funds support San Diego Pride’s community philanthropy which has distributed more than $2.5 million in advancement of its mission to foster pride, equality, and respect for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities locally, nationally, and globally.
For questions contact Tyler Roosden (651) 497 - 1611
McGee Pass Backpack
August 8th-13th 2023
Trip Leader: Juan Carlos Hernandez, email: jceatm24@msn.com, phone: 805-302-0717
John Muir Wilderness?
Yes Please!
This is an exciting and challenging 5-night backpacking trip under the Easter Sierra Sky during one of the most active astrological phenomena of the year. We will be visiting the sierras during the Perseids Meteor Shower 2023 which is predicted to peak August 12th and 13th.
We will leave from the McGee Creek trail head at 8 AM on the morning of August 9th at 8,045 feet. At first, our ascent will be moderate. After passing locally known Round Lake at the 5-mile mark, we will climb more steeply, heading to Big McGee Lake at about 7 ½ miles at altitude 10,472 feet. There are heavily used campsites at the lake where we will stay the night. We will be surrounded by the colorful walls of the Red Mountain and White Mountain. On day two, we will cover 5.5 miles, crossing over McGee Pass at 11,909 feet, and then descend steeply to Fish Creek, crossing the creek at about 10,600 feet to camp at beautiful Tully Lake. We will spend the remainder of our stay at Tully Lake and enjoy exploring the surrounding lakes and valleys. Plenty of great views, fishing, day hikes, or just relaxing around the scenic lake.
This backpacking trip is considered strenuous/moderate, and you must be able to keep a moderate pace with the entire group. The trip will be limited to 6 people max and interested members must register with the GO, be in good standing and have experience backpacking overnight 4 nights or more.
Cancelation policy: 100% refund prior to July 12th, 2023. After July 12th, 2023, no refunds will be issued because members on the wait list may not have time to organize for the trip.
Please be aware that you are not registered for this backpack trip until the trip leader has determined you are qualified, and you have completed and submitted the registration form and payment of $40. The registration form needs to be returned to the trip leader and payment made within 7 days of receiving the registration form or the trip leader will contact the next person on the waiting list, and you will forfeit your spot.
Things to consider.
August 8th Arrive at Campgroup and acclimate to elevation.
August 9th Departure from Trailhead at 8am sharp
August 10th spend the night at Big McGee Lake and explore the lake at your leisure.
August 11th departure for Tully Lake at 8am and ascend McGee Pass
August 12th explore Tully Lake and surrounding Trails.
August 13th Pack up and Return to Trail head at 8am
It is imperative you must be able to keep up with group on this trip as we will be covering 13 miles on the last day of the trip to the trail head.
Acclimation campground close to trailhead McGee Creek Campground 37° 33' 51.9998" N 118° 47' 4.9999" W on August 8th. Two campgrounds will be reserved for participants arriving that day.
Click here for a map of the trailhead.
San Simeon State Park/Hearst Castle/Paso Robles Wine Country/Cambria
The Ultimate Central Coast California Road Trip
September 21-24, 2023
Hearst Castle, where dreams and celebrities mixed, is just one of our destinations on this fantastic experience-filled weekend.
The pandemic closure of Hearst Castle, designed more than a century ago by architect Julia Morgan for William Randolph Hearst, and a major road repair allowed time for a much needed rejuvenation. Now, at the spectacular indoor Roman Pool, the freshly scrubbed tiles have never looked bluer, and outside at the Neptune Pool, the newly polished Roman and Greek statues look like they just arrived to greet us.
Our campground is in nearby San Simeon State Park, one of the oldest and most popular campgrounds of the California State Park System. We have reserved an amazing 20 sites, most with oak tree shade, grouped together to host both tent campers, trailers, and RVs, so all are welcome. The campsite has showers, and each site has a picnic table. You will have an opportunity to add days at the campground on your own before or after the outing.
Hearst Castle Tour
Our special 90-minute group tour will be the Grand Rooms. Our highlights include the Assembly Room, Refectory, Billiard Room, Theater, Gardens, Neptune Pool and Roman Pool. Reserve and pay for your tour ($30) when registering here for this event.
Mr. Hearst's guests gathered in the splendid social rooms on the ground floor of Casa Grande (Big House). Follow in their footsteps as you travel back in time and experience what it was like to be a guest at Hearst Castle. Other tours available on your own. Optional lunch at Hearst Castle Visitor Center Cafe.
Coastal Discovery Center (Across Route 1 from Hearst Castle Visitor Center)
Welcome to the Coastal Discovery Center, a joint venture between Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and California State Parks. Located on beautiful San Simeon Bay, the Coastal Discovery Center celebrates the connection between land and sea.
The Center offers interactive exhibits and education programs which highlight the cultural and natural history of San Simeon, California State Parks and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The interface of land and sea is unique here, drawing people for its rich bounty and inspiration. No charge.
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is open and free for everyone to enjoy 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset.
The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve with multiple trails, is an inviting, historic oceanfront sanctuary offering visitors a rare expanse of nature and solitude within walking distance of the California Central Coast village of Cambria.
The most outstanding natural feature of the preserve is the dramatic ocean bluff that runs more than a mile along the shoreline. The rocky coast rises to a 200-foot ridge with breathtaking views of migrating whales, birds, and playful otters before sloping southeastward to the willow-edged creek.
While there enjoy the nearby town of Cambria and famous Moonstone Beach.
Wine Country Route 46 (State Route 1 to Paso Robles). Dozens of wineries line both sides of the 20-mile route from Cambria to Paso Robles along State Route 46. Plot your own leisurely day down this remarkable road with many well-known labels and farm stands.
Piedras Blancas Light Station Now managed as a historic park and wildlife sanctuary, the light station is part of the federally designated Piedras Blancas Light Station and the California Coastal National Monument. Saturday, September 23, is Public Lands Day and the Light Station, as well as its surroundings, are available at no charge with a host of on-site activities to be announced closer to that date.
Schedule:
Thursday Sept 21
Friday Sept 22
Saturday September 23
Sunday September 24
What to bring: Camp chair, camping/cooking gear, food, warm/cool weather clothing, one bundle of firewood per person, and recommended Ten Essentials.
Amenities: RV sanitation station, water-fill station, and token-operated showers. Firewood is also for sale from the campground host. Tents and RV's will be on separate sites.
Climate: Average: High 76°F low 60°F
Overflow parking - No charge, located just outside campground.
Directions: San Simeon is about 250 miles north of LA.; 2 miles north of Cambria Map
From the Palm Springs area take the I-10 to I-15 north to 215 west to the 134 west to 101 west (north) to San Luis Obispo.
From OC, LA and SD take the 405 north to the 101north to San Luis Obispo.
From SB/VC take the 101 north to San Luis Obispo From San Luis Obispo take US highway 1 north about 45 miles. The park is about 2 miles north of Cambria.
Trip Leaders: Contact Brian Miller SB/VC or Lloyd Queen PS
This event hosted by Santa Barbara/Ventura County and Palm Springs.
Cancellation/Refund Policy: Cancellations must be received by September 1 to receive a refund minus a $10 service fee. No refunds for Hearst Castle tour tickets after July 20.
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the trip leader that may affect your ability to complete this event.
45th ALL CHAPTER CONFERENCE
Lake Perris State Recreation Area This years theme: "Outdoor Experiences"
Bring and wear your best Chapter T-shirts and apparel - including ones from years past that represent outdoor experiences.
Our 45th Anniversary! Join us for a weekend of entertainment and a variety of activities including, hiking, biking, boating, swimming, museum visit, raffle prizes, and campfire activities. "A sparkling jewel and a land of mystery..." Hidden among rock-studded hills, Lake Perris State Recreation Area’s 8,800 acres of broad valley are bounded on three sides by low ridges. The surrounding hills obscure the view of nearby cities. The San Bernardino, San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains stand tall in the distance.
Activities
Registration options include: Tents and RV’s. Tents will be in tent only sites. RV sites are located adjacent to the tent only sites, separated by a grassy area. We will have group campfire located in central spot. A few tents may be placed on RV site in and area away from the RV if needed. Sites will be preassigned with site assignments 1 week prior to event. Registration is available to Great Outdoors members only. If not a member, you may join and purchase a membership - Click Here For Membership
Amenities for Tent and RV Campers: Every site has a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. There are shade trees in the tent site areas. Water and restrooms with free hot showers. Up to 3 vehicles may be parked at any one campsite.
Amenities for RVs: The RV sites have fresh water, electrical hook-ups and gray water drain. A dump station is located at the campground entrance. Every site has a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. RVs must be parked in provided space and may not protrude into roadway. Maximum length 31 feet ; however RVs up to 40' may be backed in with tail overhanging campsite.
Non-Campers: Lodging can be found in nearby Moreno Valley
Pets are welcomed - leashed, controlled, picked up after, allowed on trails.
What to Bring:
Schedule of Events:
All members are welcome to attend any business meeting.
Check white board at camp for updates and details
Sunrise 6:58 AM Sunset 6:09 PM
Friday Oct 20
Saturday Oct 21
9:00 - 11 am General Business meeting, Corp Board and elections** Incoming Board Meeting***
11:00 am Outdoor Experience Committee meeting****
Sunday, Oct 22
* Attended by current Corp Board and Committee Chairs. ** Attended by outgoing Corp Board, Chapter Delegates, Committee Chairs. We elect a Corp. Chair, Secretary and Financial Officer. The Chair then appoints Committee Chairs. *** Attended by the newly elected Corp Board and Committee Chairs. **** Attended by VPO's of each Chapter and other interested parties.
Directions: The recreation area is located 11 miles south of Riverside via Highway 60 or I-215. Google map:
Climate and Elevation: Average high/low: 82° / 52° ; Elevation 1595'
Cancellation/Refund Policy: Cancellations must be received by Oct 5 to receive a refund minus a $10 service fee.
Payments: Online payments only using credit cards.
FAQ's
What's the difference between a regular GO camp out and a conference camp out?
Conference is held once every year in October (as required in the by-laws) where delegates from each of the five chapters and the Corp board come together to:
Who puts on the Conference?
Do I need to attend any of these business meetings?
Can I come to any of these meetings if I'm not on the corp. board or delegate?
What if I'm not part of the Corp board or delegate, can I still attend the conference?
Can I attend the day activities without camping?
Any other questions? - contact Trip Leader or Board Members
If you would like to know more about the history and founding of GO go to https://greatoutdoors.org/about-history
Save the Date
Bring Ten Essentials (click here), water (1 to 2 liters recommended), trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Hiking poles may be helpful.
Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
Contact Hike Leader: Howard Goldberg
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. Distance to trailhead is .
Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.
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 hike.
Contact Hike Leader: John Ryan
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