Upcoming and Past LA Chapter Events

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• CORP - Great Outdoors - Board Mtg

  • When
    Sat, April 20, 2024
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    San Diego
  • Spaces left
    13
  • Registered
    17 registrants

  Register

  California Great Outdoors - Board Meeting

  Saturday, April 20, 2024, 10 AM - Noon

  The Great Outdoors Board will meet on Saturday April 20, 2024 starting at 10:00 AM.  The meeting will take place in person. The location is at the home of Tyler Roosden in San Diego. The address will be provided to those who register for the event.

  There will be Zoom link for attending the meeting  click here. If you plan to attend by zoom, send me an email at Chair@GreatOutdoors.org so I know how you will be attending.

  All GO Board Members, Chapter Representatives and GO Members attending this meeting will need to register for this event.

  April 2024 Board Meetings Agenda - 2024-04-20 Agenda - Quarterly Board Mtg.pdf

  January 2024 Board Meetings Minutes - 2024-01-21 GO Corp Board of Directors Meeting Minutes.pdf

  
  

  If you have any questions, please contact Dennis Curran via email - Chair@GreatOutdoors.org.

  
  

  
  

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• LA - Hike: Double the Friendship

  • When
    Sun, April 28, 2024
  •  
    11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center
  • Spaces left
    26
  • Registered
    14 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Double the Friendship - Dean Dana Friendship Park and Korean Friendship Bell at Angels Gate Park
  

  Sunday, April 28, 11 AM - 3 PM

  Location: Meet at 11:00 AM at the parking lot of the Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center: https://sanpedro.com/san-pedro-area-points-interest/friendship-park-2/

  1850 West 9th Street, San Pedro 90732
  

  Distance of hikes: approximately 3.5 miles - Easy to light-moderate difficulty

  Time: 11:00 AM Orientation and Introductions. The hike begins at 11:15 AM

  EVENT:

  Join us for a "Double the Friendship" hike and lunch event on a lovely Springtime late morning/early Sunday afternoon at two beautiful San Pedro parks.

  This event will give participants an opportunity to visit two special "Friendship" theme parks, have lunch together and enjoy some leisurely hiking with spectacular views of the San Pedro Bay, the Port of Long Beach and beginning of the Rancho Palos Verdes peninsula coastline.

  Our first hike will begin at the Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center. The hike is approximately 1.5 miles with some incline which makes this an easy to slightly moderate hike. The path is very pretty with grassland, native plants and trees, and cheerful birds to watch.

  
  

  After our hike we will take a break to have a bring-your-own picnic lunch (there are picnic tables and benches back outside of the Nature Center).

  After lunch we will make a short visit to the park's Nature Center and museum (15 - 20 minutes to view the exhibits). Then we will then take a short 3.4-mile drive south to the Angel's Gate Park and the Korean Friendship Bell (carpooling/caravaning to the next site can be arranged by participants). From the parking area at Angel's Gate we will take a short walk out to the Korean Bell which was gifted as a gesture of friendship from the Republic of Korea to the City of Los Angeles in 1976. Read more information about the Korean Bell: https://www.californiabychoice.com/home/korean-bell-of-friendship

  
  

  From the Korean Bell we will take another hike (about 2 miles round trip) down the Paseo to Wilders Park point and to Sunken City (we will pass through Point Fermin also) and then back to Angels Gate and parking.

  There will be plenty of time to stop and take in the great views, snap some photos, and relax.

  Registration for up to 30 people.

  Free but must register in advance via the GOLA website.

  Carpool/ridesharing information: Due to liability and insurance reasons Great Outdoors cannot organize carpools and hike/trip leaders cannot take an active role in making arrangements for participants' transportation. If you would like a ride, or could provide a ride, members can sign up on your own at the link below. https://www.groupcarpool.com/t/8wib3h

  Bring: Drinking water in reusable bottle, sun protection, and wear sturdy footwear. Carry your emergency contact info with you at all times.

  Hike Leader: John Blasco

  Questions: Contact: John Blasco (562) 726-4165 or JohnLongBeach@msn.com

  If you need to cancel your registration, it is very important that you please contact John so that persons who may be on a wait list can be accommodated. Thank you.

  Health Problems/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader if you wish.

  GREAT OUTDOORS, INC. is an all-volunteer not-for-profit organization dedicated to the enjoyment of the outdoors. All rights reserved.

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• LA - MetroLink to Hilbert Museum

  • When
    Sat, May 04, 2024
  •  
    8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Hilbert Museum, Orange
  • Spaces left
    13
  • Registered
    7 registrants

  Register

  
  

  MetroLink to

  Hilbert Museum, City of Orange

  Saturday, May 4, 2024

  Schedule:

  8:00 AM LA-Union Station, Look around the historic building, have a coffee, etc. Buy the $10 Weekend Day Pass at the station or online.

  8:40 AM Board Metrolink

  10:00 AM Entrance area of the Hilbert

  1:30 PM Lunch in the Orange Plaza area.

  2:43 PM Early Departure Option return to LA-Union Station.

  3:00 PM Free time to explore the plaza and antique shops or even visit the Huell Howser Archives at Chapman University.

  6:20 PM Orange Train Station

  6:41 PM Train Departs, Make sure to be on the correct train!

  7:38 PM Arrive LA- Union Station

  We are lucky to have Nick Macierz joining us. Nick retired after many years as a Collections Manager for the Autry Museum of the American West and is now working on a queer photography show for the Getty Museum on June 20, 2025. We look forward to having some of his insights as we stroll through the galleries.

  Organizer: Russell Hammerl, biz4russ@yahoo.com (corrected email)

  Museum Address: 167 N. Atchison Street, Orange, California Directions

  (directly across the street from the train station in Orange)

  Spaces: 20

  The Hilbert “holds the distinction of being the only museum in the world committed to tracing the rich, iconic history of the Golden State.” Presented are works by leading California artists from the late 1800s to the present.

  One of the highlights is the many pieces from the California Master, Millard Sheets, including the mosaic façade of the museum, “Going to the Beach.” 

  

  In the 1950s, “Sheets was commissioned by Howard F. Ahmanson to design Home Savings Bank branches throughout Southern California that would serve as community landmarks by expressing "community values" or presenting "a celebratory version of the community history.” To accomplish this goal, Sheets designed his branch buildings with exterior façades containing large mosaic works depicting local heritage. Besides 40 paintings by Sheets in the Hilbert collection his works are shown at major museums such as the Chicago Art Institute, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Whitney Museum, the National Gallery, and the Los Angeles County Museum.

  For those not taking the train other options are:

  • Carpool, click here.

  • Driving: Park in the Old Towne West parking structure for free at 130 N. Lemon Street, one block east of the museum. The Hilbert Museum also has a small onsite parking lot; spaces are marked with RESERVED HILBERT MUSEUM. Do not park at Streamliner Lounge.

  
  

  The Old Sixth Street Bridge

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• LA - Malibu Creek State Park Campout

  • Start
    Wed, June 26, 2024
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, June 30, 2024
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    Malibu Creek State Park
  • Spaces left
    0
  • Registered
    39 registrants

  Join waitlist

  

  Malibu Creek State Park Campout

  Start: Wednesday, June 26, 2024 2:00 PM

  End: Sunday, June 30, 2024 12:00 PM

  Spaces: 40

  Trip Leader:

  Russell Hammerl: VPO-LA@GreatOutdoors.org

  Co-Leaders:

  John Blasco: johnlongbeach@msn.com

  John Butta: President-LA@greatoutdoors.org

  
  

  Our group campsite is secluded amongst a grove of mature live oaks next to a meadow in the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains. The campout is five days and four nights but you can arrive on any day- however, fees will be the same. Please let the trip leader, Russell, know the day you will be arriving. The campout is priced under the break-even point.

  Over a hundred films and television series have been filmed in the park. Picture yourself camping in the mountains where the opening scenes to the TV show MASH were filmed, without the helicopters. The visitors center has information on the films shot in the park when it was part of 20th Century Fox. There are many options for hiking, in fact there is a fifteen mile trail along the creek which is the only one to traverse the Santa Monica Mountains. Park Brochure

  Within walking distance is one of the largest Hindu Temples in Southern California. Also within hiking distance is King Gillette Ranch - yes, the razor guy. There will be a day hike in the mountains each morning and the beach in the afternoon. On the hikes we will be identifying and learning about the native plants and geology of the area. If it's warm a swim at Dan Blocker Beach next to Cher’s house will be perfect.

  • The gates at Malibu Creek State Park are open from 8 a.m.- 10 p.m.
  • Facilities have free hot showers, flushable toilets, picnic tables, and potable water.
  • The campsite is about 300 yards from the parking area.
  • RVs park in our own secluded group campsite parking lot.
  • Fires are prohibited during Red Flag warnings. If permitted, firewood is available from the Camp Host.
  • Dogs are only allowed in the campsite and must be at all times on leashes no longer than 6' and in a tent or enclosed vehicle at night. Except for service animals, pets are not allowed on trails, park buildings, or on most beaches.

  
  Volunteers needed! If you can assist please contact Russell Hammerl
  

  
  

  Wednesday, June 26

  2:00 PM Check in, set up camp

  5:00 PM Meet and greet, bring a snack to share

  6:30 PM Short nature trail walk, dinner on your own

  Thursday, June 27

  8:00 AM Hike to Piuma Ridge trail, about 4-5 miles round trip. Some of this hike is shaded under a canopy of oaks, sycamores, bay trees. Bring 10 essentials, plenty of water, hiking poles, snacks or lunch, hiking shoes with good traction and grip, hat, sunscreen, etc.

  12:30 PM Lunch on your own

  1:30 PM Dan Blocker Beach swim and hang out

  5:00 PM Malibu Seafood, not expensive but excellent fish, picnic tables, outside. Bring a jacket! It can be cool in evening by the ocean.

  6:30 PM Slow drive back to camp with stops at the pocket pullouts on Malibu Canyon Road. Relax under the oaks, board games, etc.

  Friday, June 28

  8:00 AM Hike to King Gillette Ranch and Visitors Center.

  11:00 AM Option to continue hike to Hindu Temple, however respectful attire requested, shoes are not worn around the temple.

  2:00 PM Malibu Lagoon, parking is just a few dollars, meet in the parking lot. Stroll around lagoon, bird watch, walk to Surfrider Beach, swim, and hangout.

  Perhaps a walk to the end of Malibu Pier for a soda or coffee.

  6:00 PM Dinner on your own or possibly order from Mediterranean Pita Grill

  Saturday, June 29

  8:00 AM Hike to Mash site with a long stop at visitors' center, 4-5 miles at a moderate pace. Bring your own sack lunch, at least 2 liters of water, hiking poles, good traction hiking shoes and 10 essentials.

  2:00 PM Afternoon is on your own. A suggestion is La Piedra a pocket beach or relax at camp. It’s up to you.

  7:00 PM Potluck dinner, bring something to share 4-6 servings.

  Sunday, June 30

  Morning:  Group cleans campground

  12:00 PM Latest check out

  Price:

  a. RV first person – $145.00

  b. Each additional RV passenger – $25.00 Must arrive in the RV. 

  c. Tent first person – $65.00

  d. Tent each additional person – $25.00 Must arrive in the same vehicle as tent first person.

  A maximum of 30 cars is allowed for the group site.  The parking lot is a short walk from the group campsite.  Carpooling will be necessary for us to reach our maximum of 40 participants. See below for note on Carpooling.

  Info for RVs: There is one dump site for $10.00. Maximum RV length is 30 feet. Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am and generators may only be operated between 10 am and 8 pm. Check with the park for more specific details 310 457-8144.

  Dark Sky: Keeping your camp lights off or at a minimum allows the insects, birds, and animals to continue their natural rhythm of the night and for us to enjoy the stars.

  What to Bring: Camping/cooking gear,10 essential items, food, clothing for warm days and cool nights, beach gear including swimsuit if desired, potluck item for Saturday night. Please bring your own plates, cups, mugs, and eating utensils*, towel, soap/shampoo and one bundle of firewood. If permitted firewood is available from the camp host.

  *In order to cut down on waste, please consider bringing your own reusable plate, utensils and cup/mug.  Follow posted rules about dish washing.

  Directions: The park is located four miles south of Highway 101 on Las Virgenes/Malibu Canyon Road.

  1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302

  At the entrance booth, say you are going to the Group Campground. The attendant will give you directions, find your way to our site. See map link. You must enter the park before 10 pm, they close the entrance gate

  Weather: Temperatures in Malibu Creek State Park can vary greatly. June can range from an average high of 84º to a low of 60º.

  Refunds: Cancel by June 11, 2024 for a refund (minus $20 service fee).

  Payments: Pay online with a credit card when you register using the link above.

  You must be a paid member of one of the Great Outdoor (GO) Chapters in order to register for this event. Annual membership is only $25.  You can easily join online and then register for this trip. 

  Carpool/ride sharing information: Due to liability and insurance reasons Great Outdoors cannot organize carpools and hike/trip leaders cannot take an active role in making arrangements for participants' transportation. If you would like a ride, or could provide a ride, you can sign up on your own at the link below. https://www.groupcarpool.com/t/ksx809

  
  

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• LA - Patti Labelle At Hollywood Bowl

  • When
    Sun, July 07, 2024
  •  
    7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Ave, 90068, CA
  • Spaces left
    22
  • Registered
    8 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Patti LaBelle at the Hollywood Bowl

  Details: The Grammy-winning Godmother of Soul returns for a dazzling night under the stars. With hits such as “Lady Marmalade,” “If Only You Knew,” and “On My Own,” the elegant Patti LaBelle always captivates with her signature vocal stylings.

  5:30 pm (Optional): Meet us for a pre-performance picnic at Picnic Area 7 (click to view map). This is the uppermost picnic area, where we will save tables with a view of LA. It's the last one, beyond the last (3rd) escalator, then turn right into it. If you are joining us for the picnic, bring your food and drink (wine bottles are allowed*.

  7:10ish pm: Walk to our seats. Have your electronic ticket ready.

  7:30 pm: - Show begins

  *This is not a "Lease Event", so you may bring your own wine bottles etc. into the seating area.

  FAQs | Hollywood Bowl

  Transportation options: There are many options to get to the Bowl including driving, shuttles, carpooling and others. As Great Outdoors members we strive to do our part to reduce traffic and parking congestion and help protect the environment. Please see the following:

  • Hollywood Bowl Parking, Shuttle & Transportation Info | Hollywood Bowl, or
  • Carpool/ride sharing information: Due to liability and insurance reasons Great Outdoors cannot organize carpools and hike/trip leaders cannot take an active role in making arrangements for participants' transportation. If you would like a ride, or could provide a ride, you can sign up on your own at the link here https://groupcarpool.com/t/2r4i78

  Tickets: $50/ticket. Registration is for up to 30 people with a max of 4 tickets per person.  Your ticket will paid for by registering and paying via the Registration link.  All tickets are in Section K-2, which are relatively close to the stage. No refunds after June 7, 2024. Add yourself to the wait list if it sells out.
  

  1. I will email or text your tickets to you no later than July 1, 2024. Note: If you determine that you cannot attend after receiving the tickets, you will be responsible for dispositioning of your tickets yourself, i.e. donating it back to GOLA, transferring it to someone else, other.

  2. You may present your tickets on your mobile device by logging into a Hollywood Bowl account the day of the performance and showing your tickets directly from your browser.

  3. Access and manage your upcoming events by downloading the Hollywood Bowl app.

  There are step by step guides on both of these options available at www.hollywoodbowl.com/digital-tickets.

  Trip Leaders: John Butta and Joe Holiday.

  Questions: contact John at 213-200-7843 or jbutta@pacbell.net

  Health issues/allergies: It is the responsibility of participants to carry on their person a record of significant allergies, medications and medical history in the event of a medical emergency. Discuss any medical concerns with the tour leader if you wish.

  
  

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• CORP Great Outdoors - Board Mtg

  • When
    Sat, July 13, 2024
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Online meeting using Zoom
  • Spaces left
    30

  California Great Outdoors - Board Meeting

  Saturday, July 13, 2024, 10 AM - Noon

  The Great Outdoors Board will meet on Saturday July 13, 2024 starting at 10:00 AM.  The meeting will take place online using Zoom.

  All GO Board Members and Chapter Representatives attending this meeting will need to register for this event.

  All GO members may register this meeting if interested.

  July 2024 Board Meetings Agenda - 

  April 2024 Board Meetings Minutes - 

  
  

  If you have any questions, please contact Dennis Curran via email - Chair@GreatOutdoors.org.

  
  

  
  

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• LA-Camping-Mount Pinos-Los Padres NF

  • Start
    Fri, September 06, 2024
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • End
    Sun, September 08, 2024
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    Mount Piños Car Camp - Los Padres NF
  • Spaces left
    20
  • Registered
    10 registrants

  Register

  x

  

  Mount Piños Car Camp

  September 6-8, 2024

  Trip Leader: Bob King (323) 394-9313, bk78@pacbell.net

  Spaces: 35

  Vehicles: 13 including RVs or trailers, max 30’

  Cost: $50.00

  Mount Piños is located in the Los Padres National Forest on the boundary between Ventura and Kern Counties, California. The summit, at 8,847 feet (2,697 m), is the highest point in Ventura County, so it is much cooler than in the city of Los Angeles. Bring a sweater and escape the heat. The mountain is the highest point of the Transverse Ranges west of the Tejon Pass. Tall Jeffrey and Ponderosa Pines shade the campground. This mountain top location has rugged rock formations and a feeling of being quite remote.

  
  

  Campground Information:

  We will be at Group Site 1 at McGill Campground. The facility has vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. There is NO WATER at the campground so bring all the water you will need.

  Bears may frequent the area and all food must be kept in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle.

  Friday

  Arrive any time after 3 PM and set up your tent. Meet and greet snacks around 5-6 PM and Dinner is on your own with a campfire at sundown.

  Saturday

  There will be an organized hike on Saturday morning. You will need hiking boots, daypack, water, 10 essential items, hiking poles, and a sack lunch.

  Traditional Tea at 4 PM.

  The Great Outdoors potluck dinner will be at 7 PM. Dinner will be followed by a campfire activity.

  Sunday

  Breakfast on your own and relax until check out time at 12 noon.

  
  

  Directions:

  McGill Campground Take I-5 North to Frazier Mountain Park Road exit. Go west on Frazier Mountain Park Road for 7 miles and the name of the road changes to Cuddy Valley Road and continue about 5 more miles. Stay left at the Y in the road and head towards Mt. Pinos, NOT towards Pine Mountain Club. Continue about 5 miles to McGill Campground on the right. We are at Group Site 1.

  Equipment:

  This site is for tent camping and RV’s. All regular camping equipment is needed, including a tent, ground cloth, sleeping bag, stove and fuel, cooking utensils, dishes and cutlery, folding chair, and a cooler with food. Limited parking is available for trailers or RV’s.

  Note, Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

  *In order to cut down on waste, please consider bringing your own reusable plate, utensils, tablecloth and cup/mug. Follow posted rules about dish washing.

  Weather: The weather is variable, so be prepared for cool nights and warm days.

  Refunds: Cancel by August 26, 2024 for a refund (minus $20 service fee).

  Payments: Pay online here with a credit card at time of reservation.

  You must be a paid member of one of the Great Outdoors (GO) chapters in order to register for this event. Membership is $25.

  This announcement is first being sent to GOLA members only.  If it does not fill up it will then be sent to other GO chapter members on or about March 1.  Register now to reserve spots for you and your carpool mate(s). 

  Carpool/ride sharing information: Please plan on carpooling as the number of vehicles is limited.  When registering online you will be asked who you are carpooling with.  It is imperative that each registrant respond to that question so that we may keep track of how many vehicles are tied to registrants.  As noted, there is a limit of 13 vehicles. 

  Due to liability and insurance reasons Great Outdoors cannot organize carpools and hike/trip leaders cannot take an active role in making arrangements for participants' transportation. If you would like a ride, or could provide a ride, you can sign up on your own at the link below. https://www.groupcarpool.com/t/x2uny4

  Nearby Attractions: The Jacinto Reyes National Scenic Byway travels past breathtaking cliffs, rock formations and lush riparian areas.

  
  

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• CORP - Outdoors Experience - Hike and Trip Leader Training

  • Start
    Fri, November 15, 2024
  •  
    8:00 AM
  • End
    Sun, November 17, 2024
  •  
    5:00 PM
  • Location
    Whitewater Preserve Palm Springs

  Register

        OUTDOORS EXPERIENCE

  Hike Leader - Morning 4 hrs
  Trip Leader - Afternoon 4 hrs

  You may attend either one or both.

  Full Weekend Schedule:

  Friday Nov 15 2 pm - 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. This is a welcome hike for attendees at the hike/trip leader training this weekend. We will discuss and demonstrate The Ten Essentials and safety on the trail.  After the hike we have pool time welcome and dinner. 

  5 pm 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 168-5 -Training class at the Preserve Administrative Building.

  • 8 am - 12 pm  Hike Leader Training
  • 1 pm - 5 pm Trip Leader Training

  Sunday Nov 17  8:30 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 in person 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 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.

  Schedule: Start at 8:00 am and go to 5 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. 

  Link to Training Resources: Click Here

  Suggested Reading:
  

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

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• LA - Morocco Tour by GeoTours

  • Start
    Fri, November 22, 2024
  • End
    Mon, December 02, 2024
  • Location
    Morocco!
  • Spaces left
    0
  • Registered
    22 registrants

  Registration is closed

  
  

  LA – GeoTours Morocco

  Great Outdoors LA invites you to Morocco from Nov. 22 to Dec. 2, 2024. This trip is being organized and sponsored though GeoTours, which is an LGBTQ-friendly company that organizes regular tours to places all over the world at very reasonable prices compared to other tour companies. Although not sponsored by Great Outdoors, this is an exclusive GOLA invitation that will be led by our long-time GO member and hike leader Joe Holliday, along with GeoTours. Click here for the trip itinerary and details: https://www.geotours.us/tour/morocco-2024/. Registration closes May 1, 2024.

  Why Morrocco? Although it's a favorite destination for Europeans, many Americans feel unsafe traveling in Arab countries. However, Morocco is considered one of the safest Arab countries in which LGBTQ groups can travel, and it has some of the best scenery and tourism of any region in northern Africa. Therefore, we are inviting this group of travelers to a wonderful place where they may not feel comfortable going individually but can have an “opportunity to learn about life in a different country through immersion into the culture. Seeing something from the outside versus experiencing it from the inside provides two completely different insights into a way of life.” -- Gay Travel in Morocco: An Overview (journeybeyondtravel.com).

  
  

  Personal Considerations: While several LGBTQ groups visit Morocco every year with no problems, all participants will need to understand and acknowledge the following cultural note to ensure the group's safety:

  It’s important to note that in Morocco homosexual acts are illegal and punishable by prison. Even though this is not always enforced, it’s smart to use street sense and avoid public displays of affection, as this is culturally frowned upon for both opposite and same-sex couples. As in any country, we ask our travelers to respect local customs (hats off in mosques, no kissing in public, etc) and most people will not be hostile. Transgender travelers should be especially aware of potentially abusive behavior, particularly to transgender women, due a lack of education in the country and conservative Muslim values. Please review and consider the additional information provided prior to deciding whether to participate or not:

  Additional resources include:

  · https://queerintheworld.com/lgbt-rights-in-morocco/

  · Gay Morocco | LGBTQ+ Travel Guide, Morocco Gay Rights & Safety Tips (iglta.org)

  · LGBT Rights In Morocco: Everything You Should Know Before You Visit! (queerintheworld.com)

  · LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index: 203 Countries Ranked in 2023 (asherfergusson.com)

  We plan to donate to local LGBTQ groups in Morocco to help the country's progress toward more equality.

  This is the first of what we hope will be several trips around the world (Iceland, New Zealand, Peru, etc.).

  
  

  Itinerary:

  Friday 11/22/24 – Depart USA

  Depart USA or depart earlier to have more time in Morocco.

  Saturday 11/23/24 - Arrive Casablanca, Morocco

  Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco's largest city. One night in Casablanca at Idou Anfa Hotel (4*).

  Sunday 11/24/24 – Casablanca-Rabat-Chefchaouen

  Visit the old Kasbah of Rabat, Morocco’s capital city, and go inside the richly decorated mausoleum of King Mohammed V. Continue to Chefchaouen, one of the most beautiful small towns in Morocco. One night at Dar Ecchaouen (4*).

  Monday 11/25/24 – Chefchaouen-Volubilis-Fes

  Enjoy a morning walking tour in the old medina of Chefchaouen, with beautiful pastel-blue buildings. Visit Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Fes, the imperial capital for much of the last 1000 years. Two nights in Fes at Riad El Yacout (4*) or equivalent.
  

  Tuesday 11/26/24 – Fes

  Spend a full day in Fes, the most complete medieval city of the Arab world. Take a walking tour of the medina, the bustling old part of the city, with a chaotic and exhilarating mélange of artisan quarters: brass & copper craftsmen, wedding goods, carpenters, bakers, butchers, spice sellers. Soak in a fine panoramic view of the colorful vats of the leather tanneries. Night #2 in Fes.

  Wednesday 11/27/24 – Fes – Middle Atlas Mountains – Sahara

  Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Sahara, passing through cedar forests with Barbary Apes. Stop at Ziz Gorges, deeply eroded by water and with very colorful geology. Arrive in Merzouga, a small town on the edge of the Saharan sand dunes. One night in Merzouga at Riad Azawad (3*) with dinner included.

  Thursday 11/28/24 - Sahara Desert near Merzouga

  Spend the day experiencing the Sahara Desert: visit a village of the Gnaoua people, descendants of West African slaves. Ride a camel for an hour over the impressive sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. See the Saharan sunset over the dunes. Spend the night at Azawad Luxury Desert Camp, with dinner included, followed by Berber musical entertainment.

  Friday 11/29/24 - Merzouga – Ouarzazate

  Sunrise over the desert and then ride a camel (or walk) 3 miles over the dunes to Merzouga. Breakfast in Merzouga before continuing to Todra Gorge, a narrow canyon with walls towering 1000’ high. One night in Ouarzazate at Dar Chamaa (3*).

  Saturday 11/30/24 - Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou - Atlas Mtns - Marrakech

  Explore Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a wonderful kasbah with narrow, winding lanes. Drive over the High Atlas Mountains, across Tizi n’Tichka pass at 7400' altitude. Two nights in Marrakech at Riad Nesma (4*).

  Sunday 12/1/24 - Marrakech

  Tour Marrakech, one of the great medieval cities of the Islamic world. Djemaa el Fna, is the wonderful city square of Marrakech with great activity, entertainment, and food. Free afternoon for shopping or more sightseeing of Marrakech.

  Monday 12/2/24- Marrakech - USA
  

  Morocco tour ends, with a departure from Marrakech airport, or stay longer in Morocco on your own.

  
  

  Details:

  https://www.geotours.us/tour/morocco-2024

  Additional details will be discussed in an online forum and provide you with an opportunity to ask questions prior to the final cancellation deadline. We will also have an additional forum closer to the trip departure date.

  Tour Dates: Nov.22-Dec. 2, 2024 (actual tour: Nov.23-Dec.2)

  Land Only Tour Cost: $1890. Price based on a minimum of 12 paying participants. Otherwise, the price may increase or cancel the tour. Price is also based on sharing a room; single supplement is +$500 but single rooms are limited to approx. 5 or 6 on a first come basis. There will be 12 rooms total for the group. (Estimated additional cost of international flights to be arranged on your own: $1350. LAX-CMN; RAK-LAX)

  Cost Includes: Hotels, guide, bus, entries, breakfasts, 3 dinners, and tips

  Looking to Share a Room?: Will send the contact info to the members who wish to consider this option.

  Group Size: 12-20 G.O. members

  Tour Locations: Rabat, Chefchaouen, Volubillis, Fes, Sahara Desert (Merzouga), Ouarzazate, Atlas Mountains, Marrakech (see website for exact dates and route map)

  Walk/Hike limits: At least one hike up to 5 miles and one hike on sand dunes

  Weather: Inland California climate (high 65-75, low in 50s in November)

  Cancellation policy: see Geotours website

  Registration closes: May 1, 2024. Click here to register now:

  https://www.geotours.us/tour/morocco-2024/

  Please also register via the GOLA website (link at beginning of the email, or on website).  The trip leader needs to monitor how many travelers of each type have registered and will use this registration for various updates and communications. 

  GOLA Website Registration Types:

  • One Traveler - Wants a Roomie

  Registrants are responsible for finding their own roommate. GOLA will provide connections for those interested in sharing a room. 

  • One Traveler - Has a Roomie

  When registering type the first and last name of your roommate.

  • Solo Traveler - Does not want to room with anyone

  As noted elsewhere, solo travelers will pay an surcharge of approx. $500.

  Trip insurance: Highly Encouraged. See Details link above for more information

  Have additional questions: Reach out to GeoTours, Joe Holliday  or John Butta

  
  

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