Behold the beginning of Fall season and join us at our booth and help support the newly established Idyllwild Pride group. To volunteer, select register and choose the time slot(s) that you would like to be at the booth. You can also register without a specific time.
Contact : Doug Wyle Email
Here’s your chance to help spread the word about Great Outdoors Palm Springs, meet new friends and have some fun! Google Map: Click Here
Programming / Events: click here: Idyllwild Pride Under the Pines
Saturday October 1st.
Special COVID Related Requirements
This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated for COVID
Annual End of Summer Hike, BBQ, and Pool Party!
GOSD will hold our annual end of summer hike and pool party in Laguna Beach again this year. Join us for a morning hike followed by a BBQ and dip in the pool, GOSD will provide the food for this event.
HIKE - Laurel Canyon, Laurel Spur, Willow Trail Loop
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 35 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and 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.
Meeting time: 9:30 AM
Location: Laguna Canyon Preserve, Willow Creek Parking Lot, Laguna Canyon Road at the 73 (south side), Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Distance: 3.3 miles
Rating: Moderate
Park Brochure can be accessed here.
Don't forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water along, as it will be warm in October!
As with any outing, don't forget your 10 essentials!
BBQ & POOL PARTY
After the hike is over, approximately 12:00 PM, come over and cool off in the pool and enjoy some BBQ & drinks.
Address: 159 Nyes Place, Laguna Beach, CA
Phone: 949-394-9607
We look forward to seeing you there, if you have any questions, please contact Matthew Schreiner at matthew.schreiner@mac.com or 949.394.9607.
This is our second and final planning meeting.
Do you have ideas for camping trips and outings? Have you discovered a great adventure or a hidden gem?
In addition to overnight trips, we are also interested in ideas for day activities such as hikes, educational outings, tours, winter events, kayaking, backpacking, 4x4 outings, volunteer work projects, and any activity that would be of interest to the group.
We are also looking for speakers and programs for our monthly meetings and welcome your suggestions.
FYI, we'll be taking the results of this meeting with us to the October all-chapter Great Outdoors planning conference, where we'll match up calendars with the other chapters and finalize the 2023 trips for all 5 chapters.
We are also looking for new Trip Leaders. If you are interested let us know. You can work with a Trip Leader as an assistant in planning and leading a trip. We also have a one day Trip Leader training program scheduled for Saturday November 12, 2022.
Location address will be in your confirmation/reminder emails.
Contact Scott Connelly click here with your ideas and suggestion which will be considered at a planning session.
Special COVID Related RequirementsThis event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated.
Ready to get outside with the mild weather quickly approaching?
Great Outdoors invites you to our planning meeting to schedule hiking and bike outings for the next several months.
Location is at members residence with complimentary roasted chicken/salads/desserts.
Early arrival 4:30 pm spa/pool time; 5:30 eat and plan hike and bike rides.
We are also looking for new Hike Leaders. If you are interested let us know. You can work with a hike Leader as an assistant in planning and leading a trip. We also have a one day Hike Leader training program available November 12.
Meeting address will be in registration confirmation email.
Contact VP of Outings click here with your ideas and suggestions .
Special COVID Related RequirementsThis event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated
-- ARRRRGH MATEYS! --
A pirate weekend on Catalina Island?! Sounds like a parrr-ty!
Join us for Buccaneer Days, the 32nd annual pirate-themed weekend that takes over Catalina’s rustic Two Harbors village for a legendary 3-day party. And for the first time ever, Great Outdoors LA plans to gay up this typically straight pirate-and-wench-fest!! We have planned a relaxing and raucous weekend!
See: Buccaneer Days Promo Video (2018).
Weekend festivities include:
Ahoy, me butt pirates — COSTUMERY AND CAROUSING EXPECTED! Come in your finery or walk the plank!
Me hearties, get yarrgh outfits ready! Unleash your inner wench or Captain Hook drag. But come on ye gays, let’s get creative! – what about Peter Pan, Tinkerbell and Wendy? Let’s show these straighties what a real costume parrghty looks like… Be a pirate ship! A skeleton! A lobster? Little Marrghrmaid? Skull & crossbones on rainbow flags? Get to werk! Treasure chests, gold doubloons, riches and finery, this is arrrrrrrrrrgh time to shine, mateys!
-- ADVENTURE AWAITS --
Your Captain, Bryan “Booty Plunderer” Matsumoto has charted this island expedition, and invite ye to set sail for Two Harbors, the rustic port of Catalina Island. It takes some effort, but she be worth it!
Island wenches from our previous Catalina campout!
Two Harbors Campground - Tent cabins
Avast ye seamen! Our campground is on a bluff with an ocean view. We have booked 4 tent cabins for 24 pirate campers. Each site has:
This allows us to enjoy our own group campground, away from the event area in the village. So you can relax whenever you want, and check out the entertainment as you like. (If we had opted to tent camp, then we would have to bring all our camping gear, and be surrounded by tons of other people).
Two Harbors village (10 min walk) has a few amenities:
Outdoor Activities: There will be plenty of time to enjoy the island's nature. We will have some optional organized activities, but you are also free to spend your time as you wish on this trip.
Beach time: Swimming, snorkeling, lounging, just below our campground
Short hiking trails: Explore the isthmus trail to see the other side of the island.
Long hiking trails: 12 miles RT to Little Harbor on the other side of the island, secluded beach
Kayaking: Rentals available
Snorkeling: Bring your own gear or rental
Buccaneer Days event entertainment: Thar be a full schedule of DJs, bands, treasure hunt and costume contest. Feel free to parrrghty, or just relax back at camp!
Pics from our previous Catalina campout
-- SCHEDULE OF EVENTS --
Thursday, October 6
Depart: San Pedro, via Catalina Express ferry (at your booked time, see below) (1 to 1-1/2 hours at sea) Arrive: Catalina Island, Two Harbors Village.
Friday, October 7
Saturday, October 8
Sunday, October 9
HEAVE HO... HERE BE THE DETAILS
Baggage tip! Allen here brought his backpacking pack, a duffle, and a rolling cooler to bring the max amount of stuff comfortably. You can see this is the 10 minute walk down to the village and ferry pier. It is uphill coming to the campground. (You can opt to pay for gear haul if you want)
What to bring:
Sleeping bag, swim suit, towel, costumes/outfits! Clothes for warm days and cool or warm nights. 10 essentials including hat, sunscreen. Toiletries, shampoo/soap, earplugs, head lamp.
Optional: Rolling cooler with food & drink, wine & cheese, etc. BYO alcohol (drink responsibly please). Plate, utensils, cup. Tip: Pre-meal-plan with your friends or cabin: who will bring cooler, ingredients, what to cook as a group.
Optional: Camp chair, book, games, power bank to charge electronics, decor.
Optional: Gear haul is available for $6 per item, round trip. You can arrange this at Visitor Services at the pier. A truck will bring your baggage from the pier to the campground, and on departure day, back to the pier. But don’t bring the kitchen sink… you still have to carry your gear from the ferry to the end of the pier!
We have ordered some firewood and propane gas, and can order more as needed.
Please read the extensive ferry travel policies, baggage restrictions and travel restrictions, including Tips for Campers.
Expenses
Buy your ferry ticket:
Select departure from SAN PEDRO, arrival to TWO HARBORS.
Most of us will want to depart 10/6 on the earliest ferry, and return 10/9 on the late afternoon ferry. (You are free to reserve what works for your schedule, for example if you need to arrive Friday)
Masks are required while aboard the boat.
Directions: Catalina Express 95 Berth, San Pedro, CA 90731
The ferry terminal parking lot charges $20/day. That adds up. Try our group carpool website to coordinate a carpool so you can split the fee.
Or find street parking several blocks away. Arrive early to drop off your things with someone, then park and walk back.
Long Beach Transit drops off at the Ferry terminal. Or Lyft/Uber.
Meals, drinks.
Vaccine requirement:
Please send your proof of Covid-19 vaccination & booster to Corrado at Treasurer-LA@GreatOutdoors.org since we’re sleeping in shared quarters (How to get the new booster!)
We also encourage you to get the free Monkeypox vaccine if you are in a risk category - it’s easy. See LA County Public Health’s website for latest information. Protect yourself and the community!
Trip Cancellation and Waitlist Policy:
Please read carefully. If you register, pay and later must cancel, please understand that due to the reservation costs of this trip:
If canceled by September 20, a full refund is possible.
Between September 21-30, a partial $150 refund is possible.
After September 30, no refunds can be issued.
However, a full refund may be issued if you can find another person to take your place, or if the vacancy can be filled from the waitlist.
If you need to cancel, please let us know ASAP, so we can notify the next person on the waitlist. Please email the trip leaders: Bryan Outreach-LA@GreatOutdoors.org , and Corrado Treasurer-LA@GreatOutdoors.org.
Landlubbers: Practice ye pirate lingo!
Shiver me timbers, there’s limited space, so heave ho!
7 miles of car-free streets connecting Echo Park, Chinatown, DTLA, Little Tokyo, Arts District, and Boyle Heights - including the new 6th Street Viaduct!
GETTING THERE
The Great Outdoors group plans to depart from the San Bernardino Depot Metrolink Station at 1170 N. 3rd St, San Bernardino CA 92418 (not to be confused with the San Bernardino Downtown Station) to LA Union Station. You will need to bring your own bicycles, which are welcome on the train.
There is a possibility that the Redlands light rail to the San Bernardino Downtown Station with a connection to the Metrolink to this event will be operational before October 9. If this happens, we will send an announcement prior to the event so you will have the option of leaving from the Redlands Depot.
Those wishing to carpool/caravan from Palm Springs should meet at Palm Springs PetSmart at Ramon/Crossley (Map) at 6:45 am for 7:00 am departure. If you want to rideshare and have extra space available on your bike rack or truck, you may so indicate when you register. Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Metro departs San Bernardino at 8:41am, arrives LA Union Station 10:22.
You can also meet us along the route. We will start at from the Red Line from Union Station. When you register you will receive the cell # of Scott and Dan.
There will be ample parking at the Station Depot. hose planning to drive from Palm Springs to the San Bernardino Depot should bring vehicles capable of carrying bicycles.
The Great Outdoors group plans to return from LA Union Station to the San Bernardino Depot on the 3:38 pm train, arriving at the San Bernardino Depot at 5:15 p.m.
You are encouraged to download the Metrolink app to your smart phone containing all of its schedules. Once registered, you can buy your electronic ticket ($10 all day for Metrolink and all downtown subways - you must purchase the ticket on Sunday). The machines at the depot are notoriously user unfriendly.
Other transportation options:
You are, of course, free to drive all the way to Los Angeles, to take both an earlier departing train (dep. 6:41 am arr. 8:22 am) or later returning train (dep. 5:38 pm arr. 6:16 pm). A meeting place in Los Angeles will be arranged for those departing earlier or later.
What to Bring: Water, small day back, sun protection and helmet.
Trip leaders :
Dan Haueter: Email
Scott Connelly: Email
Here are some things to know before you go:
Attractions along the route: click here
Hubs are resting and meeting points along the route. Each hub has free basic bike repair, bike parking, an information booth, CicLAvia merchandise, free drinking water, and ADA-compliant restrooms. Some hubs include additional programming and activities.
Health Problems/allergies: Advise trip leader of any medical or other issues that may affect your ability to complete this event.
Join the group "Nature Collective" and experience San Elijo Lagoon in a new way by participating in their 3-Mile Loop Challenge for National Thrive Outside Day.
The loop will take you over the deeper and wider channels made possible by the San Elijo Lagoon Restoration Project via the new I-5 suspension bridge. Be sure to stop at the Check-In Stations before beginning your hike for fun activities and your celebratory Loop Challenge sticker.
This is a NOT a Great Outdoors event.
For more information and to RSVP for this event click here: https://thenaturecollective.org/event/3-mile-loop-challenge-oct-9/
For more information about Nature Collective and its mission, click here: https://thenaturecollective.org/about/
Monthly Chapter Meeting
Tuesday October 11
@ 6:30 PM
California Pizza Kitchen Rossmoor Center
12171 Seal Beach Blvd Seal Beach Blvd. at Rossmoor Center Drive
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Click here for Map
At this meeting we will be discussing recent past events and planned activities for the next few months! Oh yeah, you have the option of eating too! Hungry? YUMMY! Vegan Options Available!
Suggested schedule will be:
1. 6:30 PM All members & Core Group arrive by 6:30 and either pre-order your food or order while on site. Introductions, eat, socialize, toss around ideas/suggestions and make merry! Each person is responsible for their own food and beverage ordering and payment.
2. 7:15 PM. Core Group will begin their meeting per the agenda along with the general meeting where the various trip leaders will have a chance to highlight their recent and upcoming trips, and answer any questions. We will continue to focus on planning for our chapter hosting the 2022 all chapter conference.
Any and all members are allowed and encouraged to attend and participate! (Please be aware that only Core Group Members are allowed to vote during the Core Group meeting.).
3. Meeting will adjourn upon completion of agenda!
SPECIAL COVID RELATED REQUIREMENTS:
Participants agree to abide by the following as a condition of registering for this event: 1 - Follow Federal, State, and Local COVID guidelines as well as the directions of the event leader. 2 - Do not attend if feeling ill or have any symptoms of COVID. 3 - Contact the event leader if you test positive for COVID within 14 days of the event.
Fall Modernism Weekend Event
This architectural tour will consist of riding through several Palm Springs neighborhoods that contain midcentury homes. This bi-annual event is hosted by Hot Purple Energy. Lloyd Queen, our trip leader docent will provide information on featured homes and related architectural significant designs along the route.
Trip Leader: Lloyd Queen Email Click Here
Additional information and get your free ticket CLICK HERE
If you'd like to print or download the map directly from our website, it will become available a few weeks prior to the ride. Please visit hotpurpleenergy.com/events. The organizer of this event Hot Purple Energy.
Please bring your own bike or contact Big Wheel Tours to rent one: asnowden@bwbtours.com or (760) 548-0500. They will fit you at the start of the ride. Bikes available by prior reservation only.
8:45 am meet at Copley's Parking Lot, 621 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs
This event requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated.
Health Problems/allergies: Advise hike leader of any medical or other issues that may affect your ability to complete this event.
Joe and Brian have invited us all to the Pool/Swim Time and Game Night on Saturday, October 15th, 2022 at their home in Palm Springs.
NOTE: Registration for this event will:
Open on October 1st and Close on October 14th!
SCHEDULE:
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM - POOL TIME (Pool and spa will be heated)
6:00 PM to 6:15 PM - SOCIAL PERIOD
6:15 PM to 7:00 PM – POTLUCK DINNER
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – GAME TIME
WHAT TO BRING:
1) Pool Time - Bathing Suit, Towel and Chair
2) Potluck Item for at least 8 people
3) Your own beverage(s)
4) Table Games you want to play (Great Outdoors provides many games)
NOTE: Bring potluck dishes/snacks/etc. "ready to serve" in a serving bowl or dish, including any needed serving utensils.
PLEASE DO NOT ask our hosts to provide access to their ovens or bowls, spoons, etc.
Our chapter is always looking for Game Night Hosts!
Please call Richard Dachman at 818-430-7114 or email GameNightCoordinator-PS@greatoutdoors.org if you are interested in hosting Game Night.
To view photos from our past game nights - click here.
To view our Game Night guidelines - click here.
Our hoists have requested that everyone be vaccinated in order to attend this indoor/outdoor event. Wearing a mask during the event is optional.
Special COVID Related Requirements:
You must be a Great Outdoors (GO) member in order to attend this event.
This event requires all attendees to members and to be fully vaccinated, submit proof of vaccination and abide by the GOPS COVID policy - CLICK HERE.
Send proof of vaccination to: membership-ps@greatoutdoors.org
or text to: 619-922-5028.
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the event leader if you wish.
Thank you for participating in the Great Outdoors club!
SBVC - Monthly Membership Meeting
Wednesday, June 15, 2022
Great Outdoors monthly meeting is at Creekside Restaurant, 4444 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara.
6:00pm for Core Group Meeting
7:00pm for General Membership Meeting
View the menu at https://www.thecreeksidesb.com/
We look forward to seeing you and getting re-acquainted. Come find out what we have planned this year, and what we are all about!
Please RSVP if you are coming.
-Joe
Monthly Multi-Group Bonfire & Potluck
Date: Thursday, October 20, 2022
Time: 6:00-9:00 pm
Location: Vacation Island, to the right (north) of the Paradise Point resort (previously called Pacific Princess resort)
RSVP: None....Just show up!
Event Cost: Free (bring potluck stuff to share)
Parking: Easy. Ample parking on site
Join us for our Potluck Bonfires by the Bay!
DESCRIPTION: This will be our first of two bonfires (Sept 15 & Oct 20) of the 2022 season; we'd been unable to host others until now due to unavailability of volunteers to bring firewood. One of our men has agreed to bring some for these bonfires (hooray Luciano!)
Bring a friend or cuddle buddy. Please also bring an entree or a side dish, and a beverage of your choice.(Alcohol is banned in Mission Bay Park). You can also help support this event by bringing a portable table, paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins or firewood, but CMG is making sure that's covered.
COVID POLICY: Due to the fact that we'll be in somewhat close proximity and sharing food off a potluck table, we are requesting that only those who have been fully vaccinated attend the bonfire.
MASKING: We're outdoors, which certainly reduces risk, but we cannot deny the continuing presence of the pandemic among us. As such, for now at least, we're simply leaving the choice of masking up to you. The only two rules are: 1) no shaming other for wearing or not wearing 2) be respectful if some people aren't feeling as hug-ready as they might have been in pre-pandemic days, especially with MonkeyPox now on our minds.
WHAT TO BRING: 1) Potluck item. Remember, we CAN have too many desserts, but we can never have too many meal choices and sides. If you have a dessert you're eager to bring, lovely! But if you're on the fence, maybe think dinner, not dessert. 2) A beach chair if you'd like to sit. Bonus points if you bring a spare for others to use! 3) A serving utensil if your dish needs one.
DIRECTIONS: Take the 8 freeway west toward Mission Bay, exit onto Mission Bay Drive and make a right, then merge into the far left hand lane onto Ingraham Street, heading North, then make a left onto Vacation Rd as if you were heading into Paradise Point Resort (previously called Pacific Princess Resort), but then an immediate Right before entering the resort to get to the side parking lot. We’ll be on the left (West) side of parking lot by the rest rooms. (Note: we're on the WEST side of Ingraham St. Don't confuse this spot with a similar one on the east side of the street.)
Join us for San Diego River Bike Ride. We will be Biking the San Diego River October 23th. This is a moderate 16 mile bike ride; with around 220 feet in elevation change. This is an open invite to members or non-members and does not require an RSVP. Please be sure to mask-up when appropriate and social distance when needed, which is very easy.
Details: We will begin at the East Parking Lot of Dusty Rhodes Parking Lot. The plan is to bike East on the North Side of the River and on the way bike we will be biking West mostly along the south side of the river.
GO HOST: Steven Stowe
TRAIL: San Diego River
LENGTH: 16 Miles
DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
ELEVATION GAIN: ~220 feet
RSVP: No RSVP required. If we have a large group, please make sure you are masked and social distance.
Meeting Location: 2469 Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107 (East Parking Lot)
Meeting Date & Time:Sunday, October 23rd @ 7:00am - We will plan to start the bike ride at 7:15 am
Parking:There is ample parking available.
Cost: Free
Time Commitment:
Plan for approx 1-3 hours
Dogs: If your dog can keep up, they are more than welcome to come. They must be kept on a leash.
Questions:Please ask in the comments below
Trail Details:
Note: This does not depict the route we will be taking, but provides valuable information
Breakfast - Hike - Soak
Remember to head over to your nearest hot tub after your hike!
9 AM - energized with breakfast, drive/carpool 10 minutes to the Long Canyon trailhead in Desert Hot Springs; directions click here. The hike is rated a moderate, approx. 4 miles total out and back in with minimum elevation gain. This trail is located in a wide wash between canyons leading into Joshua Tree National Park and was recently designated as part of the Sand to Snow National Monument.
After taking in the sites, we retrace our steps back to the trailhead and move onto Miracle Springs Resort & Spa for lunch at their indoor/outdoor Capri Restaurant and then “take the waters” in any of the mineral pools of different temperatures.
You may skip the hike and meet us at the Spa Resort for lunch.
Spa entry day pass (pay at front desk lobby):
Make sure you go to the correct Spa resort. There are two adjacent resorts, go to the Miracle Springs Resort & Spa to the North of the other spa, address is: 10625 Palm Dr, Desert Hot Springs, CA
Bring: Swimsuit - Towel - Lock for locker
Ten Essentials (click here), water, 1 or 2 liters recommended, snacks, 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. Inclement weather may cancel.
Meeting location will be sent in a separate event email.
Trip Leaders:
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.
SBVC - Halloween Party
Saturday, October 29, 2022
After a 3 year hiatus Great Outdoors Halloween Party is back!
David Landecker has graciously offered his beautiful house on the SB Riviera to host this most haunting occasion!
Dress in your finest ghoulish apparel! Costume is required!
The theme this year: 'Back from the dead!'
Date: Saturday October 29th
Time: 6:30 till 10:00 pm
Location: Will be given out to you when we receive your RSVP.
What to bring: Wear your finest scariest attire
BYOB and your favorite finger food if you like
GO will provide snacks, soft drinks, utensils and atmosphere....
Look forward to your presence on the other side....
For any other questions contact
Brian Miller
muddbilt@comcast.net
Ranger Guided Tour - Discover the colorful lives of Bill and Frances Keys and learn how they survived and raised a family in the harsh desert environment on the Keys Ranch Tour. Explore the ranch house, school room, store, workshop, and more treasures from the 60 years the Keys called this area home. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, the property is located in a remote, rocky canyon in Joshua Tree National Park. Keys Ranch tours last 90 minutes and involve about a half-mile of walking. Access to this area is limited to Ranger guided tours only.
Option bring a bag lunch for a picnic after the tour at the nearby Hidden Valley parking lot with tables.
10 am Meet at Palm Springs PetSmart Ramon/Crossley 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.
Directions to the Keys Ranch Gate - click here
Payment: You can pay with the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. You need to complete payment within 15 minutes or you will be timed out and will need to start over.
Cancel: If you cannot attend, please notify the trip leader as others may be on the waitlist. No refunds available.
Contact trip leader: Scott Connelly - email click here
Getting There
Keys Ranch tours begin at the Keys Ranch locked gate and parking area (not at the visitor center). Do not rely exclusively on your mobile GPS, Siri, or similar automated navigation systems for directions to Keys Ranch as routes can be misleading or incorrect. Please be at the Keys Ranch gate 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Tours begin promptly at the start time and the locked gate will be opened. You will continue driving down the road to a second parking area where the walking tour begins. Once all the cars are through the gate, it will be locked. There is no way for latecomers to join. Refunds will not be issued if you are late. Directions to Keys Ranch
From the Joshua Tree Visitor Center (located at 6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree CA.): Drive south on Park Blvd for about 5 miles to the West Entrance (Park Blvd is also known as “Quail Springs Road”). At West Entrance gate, proceed another 8.9 miles. Turn Left onto Barker Dam Rd. Drive on Barker Dam Rd. for about 0.7 miles. Turn Left onto Keys Ranch Rd. (Look for the sign that says “Ranch Tours”). Drive on Keys Ranch Rd. (a dirt road) for about 1 mile until the locked Keys Ranch gate. There is a small parking area and restroom facility at the locked gate. This is your meeting place. Drive time to the Keys Ranch from Joshua Tree Visitor Center is approximately 35 minutes and does not include any additional delays caused by congestion at entrance gates. Delays at this entrance gate due to congestion often add an additional 30 minutes to travel time so please plan accordingly.
From the Oasis Visitor Center (located at 74485 National Park Dr., Twentynine Palms, CA.): Drive south on Utah Trail for about 3.4 miles to the North Entrance. At North Entrance gate, proceed another 16.5 miles. Turn Right onto Barker Dam Rd. Drive on Barker Dam Rd. for about 0.7 miles. Turn Left onto Keys Ranch Rd (Look for the sign that says “Ranch Tours”). Drive on Keys Ranch Rd. (a dirt road) for about 1 mile until the locked Keys Ranch gate. There is a small parking area and restroom facility at the locked gate. This is your meeting place. Drive time to the Keys Ranch from Oasis Visitor Center is approximately 40 minutes and does not include any additional delays caused by congestion at entrance gates.
Travel Times to Keys Ranch
From Joshua Tree Visitor Center, travel time to the ranch is approximately 35 minutes, plus an additional delay of up to 30 minutes due to congestion at the gate.
From Oasis Visitor Center in Twentynine Palms, travel time to the ranch is approximately 40 minutes.
Smoking and eating are prohibited on the Keys Ranch Tour.
This event requires all attendees to be vaccinated for COVID
How to create events on GO WildApricot website.
We will review how to set up an event, including registration categories, registration form options, emails, waitlist settings, tags, and registrant contact management. Get tips for setting up and managing. Bring your questions.
This is for all WildApricot Event Managers with administrative access and any members who plan to have access and would like to learn the process.
Zoom meeting access link will be in confirmation and reminder emails.
References:
Great Outdoors Event Manager Manual: Click Here
WildApricot Help - Tutorials click here
Contact: Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here
PALM SPRINGS PRIDE PARADE - SIGN UP AND MARCH WITH US
Great Outdoors will participate in the annual Palm Springs Pride Parade on Sunday November 7, 2021. Our group includes a marching unit and a fleet of decorated Jeeps and a golf cart. We are looking for 40 members to walk in the parade ahead of the vehicles. Volunteers receive a complimentary T-shirt to wear in the parade. Come join in the celebration!
Sunday, November 6 - Pride Parade and Festival
Notes:
OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE
You may attend either one or both.
Full Weekend Schedule:
Friday Nov 11 1pm - Fun hike at Whitewater Preserve. We will adjust the time if needed to accommodate those arriving on Friday and camping at the Preserve for the training.
5pm Meet and Greet and BBQ dinner (vegetarian options available) at member's residence in Desert Hot Springs. Bring swimwear for pool and your favorite beverage.
Saturday Nov 12 8-5 -Training class at the Preserve Administrative Building.
Sunday Nov 13 9 am - Training hike at the Preserve where participants will be confronted with a variety of situations that one may encounter on the trail.
Note the Friday and Sunday activities are optional. Campers are welcome to stay for the whole weekend.
DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I
8am - 12 pm
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 online instruction with group discussion and problem solving applications and trail-based scenarios.
Pre-Course Assignment: Review training manuals and video:
Link to Training Resources: Click Here
How to Lead a Hike: Video: Click Here
Printed manuals will be available at the Oct 14 all chapter conference and at the training location Nov 12 at no cost to participants.
Option to purchase and have manual(s) mailed to you upon registration.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
TRIP LEADERSHIP - OVERNIGHT EVENTS - SECTION II
1pm - 5 pm
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.
Location: Whitewater Preserve
Course Length/Hours: 4 hours.
Arrive: 8 am to ensure a parking space. Limited spaces, high demand.
Schedule: Start at 8:15 am and go to 4:30 pm with a 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.
Weather: Be prepared for cooler temperatures. NOAA spot forecast: click here
Facilities: Whitewater Preserve located in a beautiful canyon along the Whitewater river and part of the Sand to Snow National Monument. We will be in the visitor center back room with tables, chairs, TV monitor and restrooms. Trailheads located onsite. No cell service or Wi-Fi.
Carpooling Encouraged: Limited parking spaces available. Expect high visitor use to fill the parking lot. Arrive early! Vehicles line up at the gate to get in.
Overnight Accommodations:
Camping (free) available on site at Whitewater Preserve. You can reserve a spot for camping when you register here for the training. Tent camping and small RV or trailer allowed if they will fit in the 20' parking spaces in the parking lot (you may take 2 spaces, one for your vehicle and one for you trailer) Restrooms, water, tables available. No fires of any kind. Only gas or propane for cooking. There are no trash containers -pack it out, no hookups and generators are prohibited. Arrive before 4:30 pm since the gates lock at 5 pm. Overnight campers will be provided the combination to the gate lock for after hours access. No alcohol or smoking. Photos of the camp area click here.
Hotel/motel/RV accommodations located in the Palm Springs area which is approximately 30-40 minute drive to Whitewater Preserve training site.
Nearby KOA Desert Hot Springs has both tent and RV sites with hot water springs and nice facilities.
Address: Whitewater Preserve lies at the end of Whitewater Canyon Road, northwest of Palm Springs, off Interstate 10.
9160 Whitewater Canyon Road Whitewater, California GPS: 33.989075, -116.655673 (N33° 59.367' W116° 39.416') Elevation: 2200' Get Directions
Contact:
Scott Connelly, Chair Outdoor Experience: email click here
Course Preparation: We will send you a link to the Outdoor Experience Training Manuals. You are encouraged to review the material ahead of time.
This event is being planned by the Great Outdoors Palm Springs (GOPS) Chapter. For more information about this event:
The Bayside Trail is a 3.9-km out-and-back trail, within the Cabrillo National Monument Park. Because it is on the east facing side of Point Loma, it faces San Diego with expansive bay views along the way. It is located in one of the last coastal areas in the San Diego region with well-preserved coastal scrub and chaparral habitat. Many kinds of wildlife—birds, reptiles, marine mammals—may be observed. It was here that Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo landed in 1542 and claimed the land for Spain, although it has belonged to indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
On this interpretive hike our special emphasis will be about seeing the area in a whole new way, by learning about how different cultures have interacted with the area through time. For thousands of years Kumeyaay people who have lived in the area and have made use of every plant and animal, both those of the land and of the sea. We will stop and talk about different plants along the way and how native peoples have used them for food, medicine, tools, construction materials, regalia, ceremony and more. We will also learn about more recent history, including the arrival of the Spanish in 1542 and other historical happenings throughout the years. Keep in mind that this walk is not so much a “power hike” but rather a fascinating educational stroll with stops along the way. Our guide, GO member Mike Wilken, is an anthropologist, naturalist and author of the book Kumeyaay Ethnobotany: Shared Heritage of the Californias.
Details:
Meeting Date & Time:Sunday, November 13, 2022 @ 9:00am
Meeting place: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 - VISITOR CENTER
We will be at the entry to the visitor center right off the roundabout for passenger drop-off.
Host: Mike Wilken
Parking:Ample parking is available near the Visitor Center.
Cost: To enter the park, the National Park Service charges:
• Cabrillo National Monument Vehicle Permit - $20 (U.S. Dollars)
Admits one single, private, non-commercial vehicle and all its passengers.
• Cabrillo National Monument Motorcycle Permit - $15 (U.S. Dollars)
Admits one single, private, non-commercial motorcycle and its passenger(s).
• Cabrillo National Monument Individual Permit - $10/person (U.S. Dollars)
Admits one individual when entering by foot or bicycle. Groups of up to 4 people walking in or on bicycles are capped at $20 total.
Carpooling is a great idea!
Time Commitment Plan for approx 2-3 hours
Trail: From the Visitor Center, we will walk to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, from there the road to the Bayside Trail starts just northeast of the lighthouse.
Here is the write-up from Alltrails:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/bayside-trail-cabrillo-national-monument?u=m
Here is the write-up on the trail from NPS:
https://www.nps.gov/cabr/learn/bayside-trail.htm
Length: 3.9 km (about than 2.5 miles)
Difficulty: EASY but some slopes, basically downhill for first half then uphill coming back.
Elevation Gain: ~107 meters
Accessibility: Wide and well-maintained trail, NPS says: The Bayside Trail starts as asphalt (with moving cars) then turns into a wide, hard-packed dirt path. It is an out and back trail which is a gentle downhill on the way out and uphill on the way back. The trail can be uneven at times. There are several benches along the trail for beautiful bay views.
https://www.nps.gov/cabr/planyourvisit/mobilityservices.htm
https://www.nps.gov/cabr/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm
RSVP: Not necessary
Dogs: No dogs, sorry.
What to Bring
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. Bees have been reported in the area.
Contact/Question - If you have any questions not addressed by the information above or on our registration page, please feel free to contact the trip leader: Mike Wilken (mikewilken@yahoo.com)
Join us for San Diego Mission Beach Bike Ride. We will be Biking Mission Beach Boardwalk November 20th. This is a moderate 6 mile bike ride; with around 49 feet in elevation change. This is an open invite to members or non-members and does not require an RSVP. Please be sure to mask-up when appropriate and social distance when needed, which is very easy.
Details: We will begin at the South Parking Lot of the South Mission Beach Parking Lot. The plan is to bike North and back South. It will be early so we don’t have to worry about a lot of pedestrians and parking.
TRAIL: Mission Beach
LENGTH: 6 Miles
ELEVATION GAIN: ~49 feet
Meeting Location: 339 N Jetty Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
Meeting Date & Time:Sunday, November 20th @ 7:00am - We will plan to start the bike ride at 7:15 am
SAVE THE DATE
Watch for email announcement.
Please join us for the annual Great Outdoors Palm Springs Holiday Party. This special event will be held at the Miracle Springs Resort at 10625 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs, CA, 92240. (click here for directions).
You must be a GOPS member to register for this event, but each member may bring a non-member guest. The attendance will be limited to 80 people. You must register before December 1, 2021.
We will provide a buffet-style dinner that includes appetizers, turkey, ham and vegetarian main courses, with many side dishes and desserts. Additionally, a full-service cash bar will be available for all beverages (alcohol and soft drinks). We will also have an ever-popular gift exchange, moderated by a special guest. If you choose to participate in this optional event, please keep the gift value to about $20.
The cost to members for this event is $20 per person. You must be a Great Outdoors member to register. Members may also bring one (1) non-member guest for $30. Payment must be made at time of registration and paid online with a credit card within 15 minutes. Members who are couples should register separately to avoid the additional $10 "guest" charge.
Refunds: There are NO REFUNDS for this event.
For questions, please contact (SocialEventsCoordinator-PS@GreatOutdoors.org)
