Upcoming events

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

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

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

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

    WHEN: DEC 30th @ 10 AM.

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



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


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


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

    Date: January 3, 2025

    Time: 10:00 AM- 2:30 PM

    Distance: 8 miles round trip

    Elevation gain: 1677’

    Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult



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

    Hike Leader: Russell Hammerl, [email protected]

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

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

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

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

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

    Rain Cancels: 

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

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

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


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

    Hike Leadrer: Russell Hammerl



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

    POST- NEW YEAR HIKE: PISMO PRESERVE


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

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




    WHEN: JAN 4, 2026 @ 10 AM

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

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


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

    OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE at Agua Caliente County Park

    Hike Leader and/ or Trip Leader 

      You may attend either one or both.

      Friday Jan 23 to Jan 25, 2026

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

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

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

      Sunday Jan 24 : 

      • 11:30 am - Checkout

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

      DAY HIKE LEADER - SECTION I

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

      Hike Leader Syllabus

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

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

      Objectives: Introduce participants to the skills, knowledge and attitudes of a trained hike leader, including appropriate risk management for day hikes. Present skills for leading a safe, environmentally responsible and enjoyable hike.

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

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

      Pre-Course Assignment:  Review training manuals and video:

      How to Lead a Hike: Video: Click Here

      Printed manuals will be available at the training location. 

      Registration fee is fully refundable upon check in.


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

      TRIP LEADERSHIP - OVERNIGHT EVENTS - SECTION II

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

      Course Outline:

      • Create a new trip or update a former trip.

      • Planning, scouting, securing reservations.

      • Finances and budget.

      • Create a trip description and promotion.

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

      • Communicate with participants to provide information and answer questions.

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

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

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

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

      Contact: Matthew Schreiner at [email protected] 

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

      Link to Training Resources: Click Here

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




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

      Cruisin’ Morro Bay 2026

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

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

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

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


      ALLCHAPTER JAMBOREE

      SAVE THE DATE

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





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

      DAY WALK: PISMO BEACH CLASSIC CAR SHOW

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

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

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

      WHERE TO PARK: TBD

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

      • Sat, September 12, 2026
      • 5986 Sandspit Road, Goleta, CA 93117

      Flying Club / Primetimers BBQ

      Fire up the grill, let's make some noise,
      Burgers, dogs, and happy joys!
      Good food, good friends, a perfect day,
      Come hang with us, don't delay! 


      WHEN: Sept 12, 2026 @ TBD

      WHERE: Goleta Beach Park

      *Registration is not open at this time. More info to follow...*



      • Thu, September 24, 2026
      • 4:00 PM
      • Sun, September 27, 2026
      • 12:00 PM
      • 6800 Lopez Drive, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

      Lake Lopez - Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival

      The Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival is a local favorite event that features everything from entertainment to food, scarecrow and baking contests, games for the kids, movie night, and so much more! This family-friendly event highlights the best of Arroyo Grande and its neighboring communities.  


      When: Sept 24 - 27, 2026 @ TBD

      *Registration is not open yet at this time. More info to follow...*

    You may filter your Santa Barbara/Ventura County (SBVC) Chapter event selections by clicking on one of these links:
    Hikes - Camping - Backpacking - Day Events  - Social Events - Movie Nights Meetings - All Events

    To see all the events by the other GO Chapters, click on one of these links:
     
    Hikes - Camping - Backpacking - Training - Social Events - Meetings - All Events

    If you have any questions for the SBVC Chapter, email us at: [email protected]


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