This hike offers some of the best 180-degree views of the Palm Springs area. A highlight of the trail is a viewpoint high above Tahquitz Canyon with a view of the falls. We will hike to the picnic tables at the top and continue south to the trailhead on South Palm Canyon Dr. The trail climbs in a series of switchbacks and traverses, and bighorn sheep are frequently seen along this trail. Bring a lunch or snacks to enjoy at the tables at the crest as we relax before the trip down.
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: Doug Wylie Email click here
Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather may cancel.
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.
Day Hike in Carpinteria; Sat. February 4, 2023; 9:00 AM
Franklin Trail
Let’s go hiking again! Join Great Outdoors SB/VC for a moderate hike up the Franklin Trail in Carpinteria. This beautiful trail has suffered in the past few years, was in the middle of the burn area in December 2017, flood damaged in 2018, closed for over a year during the pandemic, and recently washed out in places during the torrential rains in January. I’ve checked and all is in good order now and it’s time to enjoy it.
The head of the trail is in Carpinteria, goes around the high school property, then ascends through two private ranches, climbs steadily but moderately (steep-ish in one section) and takes us to U.S. Forest land gate, where we’ll turn around.
Distance: 4.5 miles (out and back)
Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Elevation gain: 800 feet
Difficulty level: Moderate
The trailhead is at Franklin Park in Carpinteria. There is plenty of parking on Sterling Avenue alongside the park. Let’s meet there at the north end of the park. Directions: from northbound 101 take the Casitas Pass exit, left then straight on Via Real; right on Linden after the roundabout, left on Malibu Drive, right on Sterling Avenue; park on Sterling alongside the park. From southbound 101 take the Linden Avenue exit, left on Linden, left on Malibu Drive, right on Sterling Avenue; park on Sterling alongside the park.
Bring water, sunscreen, hat, snack, etc.
Lunch afterwards in Carpinteria, probably at the Spot.
Please register if you wish to participate.
Etiwanda Falls
(near Rancho Cucamonga)
Start time: 8:00 A.M.
Moderate Hike
Explore this 3.4-mile out-and-back trail near Rancho Cucamonga, California. Generally considered a moderate route, it takes an average of 2 hours to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.
Nestled in the Etiwanda foothills in San Bernardino County is the Etiwanda Falls Trail. It is a nice out-and-back hiking trail suitable for the whole family with lots of great southern California scenery and photo opportunities. There are also many informational markers along the way to explain the significance of conserving this area and its role in protecting valuable ecosystem functions and sensitive species in the area.
The falls are found on National Forest property north of the current boundaries of the North Etiwanda Preserve. By going to the falls, you will cross over privately owned property, which is not a designated part of the Preserve. The private property crossed is still a habitat preservation site for which the same conservation practices apply. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. The parking area for this trail is on Etiwanda Ave. in Rancho Cucamonga.
Recommend wearing light hiking gear for this hike. In a pinch you can get away with fitness clothing. However be mindful of the temperatures since we are doing this in the winter. A layered approach is always the best way to go! The trail is wide and easy to follow, but rocky, so trail runners or hiking boots will work best.
The pace will be a similar to the ones on our easy hikes, so don't expect a race. Very much a Sunday morning stroll to enjoy the views and work up a small appetite for breakfast/brunch/lunch.
Since this is a short hike, for those interested we will gather afterward for breakfast/brunch/lunch.
12285 Base Line Rd #120, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
Getting to the Trailhead:
The North Etiwanda Preserve is located at the northern terminus of Etiwanda Avenue in the foothill area above Rancho Cucamonga.
From the 210 Freeway:
Exit Day Creek Boulevard in the City of Rancho Cucamonga and head north.
Proceed on Day Creek Blvd 2.2 miles until you reach Etiwanda Avenue.
Day Creek will veer east and end at Etiwanda Avenue.
Take Etiwanda Avenue north approximately .3 mile until the pavement ends. Continue on dirt road approximately 600 feet to the designated gravel parking area.
The parking lot can get full on weekends hence the early start time as well as recommending carpooling. The hike will start at 8:30 AM; consider arriving at 8:00 AM or earlier. The parking fee is $3.25 for 4 hours.
What to Bring:
You should bring your ten essentials (Click here for the list.), a day pack, water (2 to 3 liters), trekking poles, sunscreen, hat, trail snacks, and plan on wearing hiking boots or shoes This is a short hike (less than 2 hours) so water is always essential but you may not want to load too much on food or a lot of snacks.
Carpooling is recommended to help reduce gas cost and parking will be a challenge. There is NO FEE for this trip except the parking fee listed above. Once we determine the list of attendees, we can assist in setting up carpooling.
Lance Whitmier will be leading this hike.
Lance can be reached at: LanceLyleWayne@gmail.com
Special COVID Related Requirements:
Participants must comply with the following requirements as a condition of registering for this event:
I will contact trip leader if I test positive for COVID within 7 days of the event
‘I Accept’ and will comply with these requirements as a condition of participating in this event.
NOTE: Due to COVID restrictions, please DO NOT show up for this hike unless you have completed a registration process here and have answered the required COVID questions.
This hike leaves from the Trading Post inside Indian Canyons and follows the Palm Canyon trail to the Stone Pools, where water is flowing this time of year. (Heavy rain left too much water flowing on Jan. 17 when this hike was originally scheduled. Members turned away at the gate that day have been given a head start on this registration.)
The hike is 6 miles, with 1200' elevation gain. There are a few steep climbs with rocks, and the usual desert hazards such as thorns and needles. Rated moderately strenuous - will generally be challenging for an unconditioned person. The terrain will involve a steady and often steep incline.
We will meet in the parking lot adjacent to the Trading Post around 8:15. You should be at the gate before it opens at 8:00 AM. It is located at the very southern end of South Palm Canyon Drive. Admission is $12 per person, $7 per senior (62+).
Contact Hike Leader: Howard Goldberg email click here
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.
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.
Special COVID Related Requirements
This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated.
Top Of The World Hike!
Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
Difficult Day Hike
Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in south Orange County covers more than 4,200 acres of scenic canyons, rock formations, meadows, old oaks, and is home to lots of wildlife.
This 7.5 mile loop trail will offer nice views of Laguna Beach and the surrounding mountains as we make our way to the "Top of the World" where we will have time to rest and have a snack. Along the way we will hike on Car Wreck Trail and wonder how that car ended up in the middle of nowhere.
The hike will take about 4 hours so bring plenty of water and snacks to keep up your energy.
Total elevation gain is 1,079 ft.
DIRECTIONS: The group will meet at 8:00 AM at Canyon View Park, 22144 Canyon Vistas, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656.
From the I-5 take El Toro Road west. Turn left at Moulton Pkwy. Make a right on Glenwood Dr. that turns into Pacific Park after crossing the toll road. Turn right on Canyon Vistas and Canyon View
The Park is on the left after 0.5 miles. We will gather at the Canyon View staging area on the corners of Canyon Vistas and Silkwood. Parking is free and is in a residential neighborhood. The hike will start at 8:15 and we should arrive back at our starting point by noon.
As an after hike option, those who are so inclined will gather for lunch at a local eatery nearby.
WHAT TO BRING: Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners, at least 2 liters of water, sunscreen, hat, windbreaker/sweater if it is cool, cameras, and snacks. Also, bring your ten essentials - click here for the list. There is a portable toilet at the trail head, restrooms and water at Alta Laguna Park.
Click here for the link to the park website for you to check on conditions, maps, etc.
Hike Leader is Rick Ponce.
Rick can be reached via email:
VPO-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org
Save the Date
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.
Contact Hike Leader: Beth Schneider
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 .
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.
Enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride through The Movie Colony, Movie Colony East, El Mirador and Racquet Club neighborhoods visiting notable homes identified by The Palm Springs Historic Preservation Board, and homeowner placed plaques. Street stops will include addresses of Famous Former owners, as well as modernism architectural styles popularized by notable architects including William Cody, Donald Wexler's 1961 Steel Homes and Albert Frey's 1946, 15 home Bel Vista track--one of the earliest mass-produced housing projects in Palm Springs. There will be more surprises along the ride!
This is a mostly flat riding experience. However, there is a slight incline riding north along N. Via Miraleste through the Racquet Club neighborhood! We will return to the meet location at journey's end. Bathroom facilities are available at Victoria Park in the Racquet Club Neighborhood.
Meet Location: meet at 9:30 am at the Desert Healthcare (Wellness) Park at the southeast corner of E. Tachevah Dr. and N. Via Miraleste. If you drive to the meet location, there is ample parking along N. Via Miraleste next to Ruth Hardy Park's Tennis Courts as well as within the park. Map click here.
Distance: Total length about 6-8 miles round trip.
Disclaimer: This is a casual bike hike, not a fitness ride. We will stop for Historic Plaque viewing/reading and discussion points at approximately 15 locations.
Contact leader Bill Bates click here
All riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmets. Inflate your tires to the recommended PSI. You may want to bring a tire pump, spare tube, bike tools, water, sunscreen and snacks.
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this event.
*Save the Date*
Hike the hills and canyons created by the San Andreas fault with outstanding geological features and great views from the ridge.
9:00 AM Meeting Place: PetSmart Ramon/Crossley, Palm Springs: Map Click Here. Meet at the north/east corner parking lot
*Hiking Requirements - you will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
Bring Ten Essentials (click here) - water (2 to 3 liters recommended), and trail snacks. Sun protection and layered clothing are recommended. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).
Optional Lunch: TKB Bakery and Deli, 45334 Golf Center Parkway, Indio 92201. Website has menu and directions. Arrange your carpooling accordingly.
Contact leader: Howard Goldberg - email click here
Carpooling - is encouraged and may be available if offered by a driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. Departure is at 9 AM. Distance to trailhead (Golf Center Parkway/Ave 42) is 18 miles, approximately 30 minutes.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels
Additional Photos - Click Here
You must be a Great Outdoors (GO) member in order to attend this event.
Special Covid Requirement: This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated.
Contact Hike Leader: Kirk Ikseb
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 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.
Co-leaders Bill Bates: EMAIL and Pat Miyamoto: EMAIL
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.
Web: https://www.indian-canyons.com/indian_canyons
This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated
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. 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 it 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. The meet and greet, potluck and other activities will take place there. March is an ideal time to visit with mild temperatures.
Activities include hiking a slot canyon in the Mecca Hills, a 4x4 excursion, an easy hike to the Visitor Center to view exhibits and a video on the Salton Sea, and 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 Dennis Curran here and Dale Solomon here
Schedule of Events*
Thursday, March 16
1:00 pm - Check-in (Please don’t arrive before noon)
3:30 pm - Sunset hike nearby location*
5:30 pm - Meet and Greet - wear your name tag -BYOB
6:00 pm - Dinner on your own
7:00 pm - Group campfire
Friday, March 17
7:00 am - Coffee and continental breakfast items
9:00 am - Hike
noon - Niland area tour - 5 hours bring snacks/sandwich
6:00 pm - Potluck bring a main dish, appetizer, salad, or side dish to share
7:30 pm - Group campfire activities*
Saturday, March 18
9:00 am - Hike*
1:00 pm - 4x4 trip
2:00 pm - Other events posted on camp whiteboard*
7:30 pm - Group campfire activities, bingo*
Sunday March 19
11:00 am - Check-out
* Check campground whiteboard for activities updates
Refunds: Cancellation for a refund, minus a $10 service charge, must be received by February 28, 2023.
Campsite Amenities: The Mecca Beach campground has restrooms that have electricity, flush toilets, running water and free solar hot showers (Mecca Beach) or showers that take quarters (New Camp, 5 miles to the north), picnic tables, fire rings, shared drinking water and paved parking stalls. There is a small store on Highway 111 and another in Mecca.
Amenities for Tent Campers: This is a good campground for tent campers. The campsites are level, sandy, with trees provide some shade. Sites are shared with another tent or an RV at the Mecca Beach campground. 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.
If you share a powered site you may be able share power with the RV. Powered sites have 20, 30 & 50 amp service. 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. If you have questions about the electrical service sharing, send the Trip Leader an email to discuss it.
March can have windy or rainy conditions or cold overnight temperatures that approach freezing. Check the weather forecasts before the campout, and be prepared for the weather conditions. If you have questions about your gear, contact the Trip Leader via email to discuss it.
Amenities For RVs:
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.
Climate: Average for March: 83° / 49° U.S.Climate Data
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.
Photos: To see some photos from prior trip - click here.
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 and scorpions at this location.
Special COVID Requirements: All attendees to be vaccinated for COVID.
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader that may affect your ability to participate in this event.
Contact Hike Leader: Doug Wylie
Contact Hike Leader: John Ryan
Orange County/Long Beach Chapter of Great Outdoors presents:
Yosemite Valley in March
You need to get your own housing!
Trip Leader: Doug Cable
Phone: 949-922-1452
Email: Secretary-OCLB@GreatOutdoors.org
Doug (GO OCLB Secretary) will arrive in Yosemite Valley Sunday March 26th and depart Thursday March 30th.
This is an open invitation to those who may want to attend and participate.
Activities will depend on the weather and snow-pack but will include day hikes and bike rides in the valley. Snowshoeing may be possible. Note that the seasonal bike rental stands will probably be closed. Hopefully we can try the cross-country ski track at Badger Pass. Bring appropriate gear for each of these activities.
There is no G.O. fee for this activity as this is an ad hoc event.
For more information and details about this trip, please contact:
3 DAY, 2 NIGHT BAJA EXPEDITION:
HIKING + WINERIES + BREWERIES + BAJA CUISINE
April 14-16, 2023
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, breweries and fine Baja-Fusion cuisine in the Guadalupe Valley. This trip combines 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 premiere 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 $470 per person cost includes a 3 day trip with transportation starting from the Tecate border and throughout the trip, four meals, ocean-view vacation home lodging, two wine tastings and a beer tasting. Guests cover three no-host meals, and any extra wine and beer 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 - 100% refund if cancelled at least 21 days beforehand, 50% refund if less than 21 days to 7 days notice, no refund if less than 7 days notice unless canceling party finds a substitute.
MIGRATORY DOCUMENTS and crossing the border: Walking into Mexico: By parking on the US side of the border, you will avoid the long lines coming back, since you will walk back through the quick pedestrian entry at the end of trip. We will meet you on the US side and walk you through customs to our van. You will need to have a US passport and get a Mexican tourist visa (FMM) for this trip. You get it online, and there should be no cost because you are only going to be in Mexico for 3 days. Instructions will be sent to participants.
US Citizens must have a US passport for land-based border crossing back into the US. Non-US citizens should bring all necessary documents for re-entry into the US.
For more information, feel free to contact Mike Wilken: mikewilken@yahoo.com
HIKES EVERY DAY: Guadalupe Valley Canyon follows a creek that winds through a deep canyon with rustic, undeveloped hot springs and scenic landscapes. The group may choose to hike a couple of extra miles and see historic adobe ruins. A picnic lunch will be provided along the way. Approximately 4 hour hike.
Rustic hot springs along the way
Punta Banda trail follows the rugged mountain that forms the dramatic tip 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 and Todos Santos Islands. Approximately 4 hour hike.
Succulent sage scrub with rare and endemic vegetation
El Salto Canyon and Waterfall trail follows an oak woodland watershed that turns into a boulder-strewn deep canyon with fascinating geology, wildflowers and plant life, birds and the view of a waterfall from above.
Geological forces took millions of years to produce this wonder
DINING AND TASTINGS: Animalón Restaurant (group will decide on exact restaurant, the following are some examples)
Wineries
The Guadalupe Valley is Mexico’s premiere wine-producing region.
Cava Sol y Barro
Clos de Tres Cantos
Casa Magoni
Cervecería Wendlandt, a hip and popular brewery right on the waterfront just minutes away from the Baja House.
Guadalupe Valley dining features everything from high-end Baja-Med Fusion gastronomy to down-home Mexican cooking. We will decide as a group based from a selection of options.
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
We will also stay at The Mexico House, right next door with equally spectacular views:
EXPEDITION ITINERARY
Three days/two nights, April 14-16
We reserve the right to make minor changes as necessary to the published itinerary.
Day 1: Friday, April 14
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 Worthy Market on the first day. Guide will meet you there and walk you over border to get paperwork stamped and take you to the van.
9:30 Leave Tecate for Guadalupe Valley
11:00 Arrive Guadalupe Hot Springs trailhead.
12:00 Picnic lunch (provided)
3:00 Return to trailhead
3:30 Visit Guadalupe Valley artisanal winery for wine-tasting and tour
5:30 Dinner (no-host)
7:30 Leave for the coast
8:00 Arrive at the Baja House and the Mexico House, relax around bonfire
Day 2: Saturday April 15
8:00 Breakfast at the Baja House
9:00 Leave for Punta Banda hike, spectacular coastal hike with panoramic vistas
10:30 Arrive at trailhead
12:30 Picnic lunch (provided)
1:30 Return trip to trailhead
3:00 Depart for return to our home base
5:00 Arrive at the Baja House, margaritas, guacamole, salsa
6:30 Cervecería Wendlandt (local brewery), tasting and no-host dinner
9:00 Return to the Baja House and the Mexico House, relax around bonfire
Day 3: Sunday April 16
9:30 Pack up, leave for El Salto trailhead
10:00 Arrive El Salto trailhead
12:00 Finish hike, return to trailhead
1:00 Lunch at Baja Fusion-style restaurant in Guadalupe valley (no host)
2:30 Visit artisanal winery for tour and wine tasting
4:30 Leave for Tecate
5:30 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.
Contact Hike Leader: Richard D.
Heaven On Earth!
OCLB Annual Yosemite Trip!
Orange County/Long Beach
goes to
Yosemite National Park
Curry Village Canvas Tents
May 19-22, 2023
Need we say more?
Yes we will! 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.
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.
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 to choose from - one will be strenuous, the other will be easy to moderate.
On Monday morning we must check out of the cabins by 10:00 am.
More details will be announced as we finalize registration.
Canvas Tents:
We have secured two 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.
Driving & Directions:
We will discuss carpooling options once registration is finalized both to save the environment and due to high fuel costs.
Photos: 2022 OCLB Yosemite
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.
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 or an extra blanket 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
State Covid Protocols will be enforced.
Weather: Average temperatures in May in the Yosemite Valley range from the high 40s/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: $180 for Great Outdoors members.
Guests: $205 for non-members (purchase of membership required for participation for $25 and $180 for the trip).
Cancellations will be authorized up to 14 days prior to start day of event; a $10 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 LanceLyleWayne@gmail.com
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 hikers 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.
Phone
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.
MCGEE PASS BACKPACK TRIP August 8th – 13th 2023
John Muir Wilderness? Yes Please!
This backpacking trip is considered strenuous/moderate, and you must be able to keep a moderate pace with the group.
This is an exciting and challenging 5-night backpacking trip under the Eastern 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, reading Big McGee Lake 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 or 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 about the scenic lake.
The trip will be limited to 5 people max (plus the leader). You must be a GO member in good standing and 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 “strenuous/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 McGee may be considered as “strenuous” by some hikers. Also, there is a thirteen mile hike out of the last day, including returning over McGee Pass.
You may cancel at any time up until July 20, 2023 and your fee will be refunded. There will be NO refunds after July 20, 2023, unless the Trip Leader decides to significantly alter the trip due to weather or safety considerations.
Things to consider
Click here for a map of the trailhead.
Contact Hike Leader: Howard Goldberg
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