May 13 Hike Big Basin: Redwoods and Waterfall Hike
     Here's a beautiful, moderate 10.2-mile hike that is sure to leave you satisfied! Many hiking books rate this as the #1 hike in the Bay Area.
     This loop hike will begin in Big Basin State Park amid giant redwoods. Hike along ferns and a creek as you drop down to Berry Creek Falls, and a 70 foot waterfall framed with ferns and redwoods. Then, after lunch at the falls, we'll begin an aerobic hike back up, passing more waterfalls and more beautiful views in the scenic Santa Cruz mountains. The Outdoor Adventure Club has planned a great hike in the woods with some fun people!  After the hike we can all hang out in Boulder Creek to cap off the day.

Includes:
* Full day guided hike (meet time is 9:30 am)
* Lunch on the trail
* Pleasant hiking partners! Why hike alone!

Pricing:
OAC Member: $26
Non-member: $39
 

May 13 Surf School for beginners in Bolinas, followed by Bolinas hang
     Spend the day in Bolinas enjoying the beach and learning to surf. If you know how to surf, come out and spend the day hanging out with the OAC group. A picnic will be available for everyone, and if you need to rent a board and gear, it is also available.

     After surfing, we'll hang on the beach or in town into the evening. It should be a great day to surf and meet other club members.
     If you want to learn to surf this is the day! Total beginners are welcome and will start their day with a 2 hour lesson. After the lesson, you'll be able to hang on to your board for the afternoon and practice your newfound skills.
  

Includes:
Full day with lessons includes:
• Surf lesson with the OAC group meeting at 10:45 a.m.
• Surfboard, wetsuit and booties you can use all day, even after your lesson
• A snack and beverage picnic on the beach after your lessons
• General beach-style hanging out with other Outdoor Adventure Club folks after your surfing: depending on wind and beach conditions, we can play Frisbee, or head back into the water on your own.
• SKILL IMPROVEMENT DISCOUNT: receive a 10% discount toward your next OAC surf class in 2006

Package with Gear Rentals but No Lessons:
• Foam board (other boards available for a slightly higher fee), wetsuit, booties
• Snacks and beverages picnic-on-the-beach for after your lessons
• General beach-style hanging out with OACers after your surfing: depending on wind and beach conditions, we can play Frisbee, or head back into the water on your own.

No Lessons or Gear:
Already know how to surf, have gear and just want to come out and meet other OAC surfers, practice and hang with us for the day? Great! Join us! There is a coordination and lunch fee.

Pricing:
OAC Member: $70 with lesson and gear package / $35 with gear rentals / $15 with no gear or lessons
Non-member: $85 with lesson and gear package / $45 with gear rentals / $20 with no gear or lessons

May 13 Surf School- Beyond the basics- in Bolinas
     Spend the day in Bolinas enjoying the beach and working on your surf skills.

It seems like lots of people take an introductory lesson for surfing, then have to flail their way through the rest of the learning process. We’re here to change that. If you’ve already had some surfing lessons, and want to improve, join us for a day of “beyond the basics” instruction.

     This class will be held at the same time as our beginner lessons, but will be a separate group, with a separate instructor giving you “the next step” in the learning process.

     As an Outdoor Adventure Club bonus, after the lesson, you'll be able to hang on to your board for the afternoon and practice your skills.

     After surfing, we'll hang on the beach or in town into the evening. It should be a great day to surf and meet other club members.     
     Today's lessons are from 11-1. Class is limited to 8 students.
     After class, we'll have a picnic on the beach. Those who wish can then go back into the water and surf as long as they like on their own. You will have the gear available to you for as long as you like without extra cost.
 

Includes:
Full day with lessons includes:
• Surf lesson with the OAC group meeting at 10:45 a.m.
• Surfboard, wetsuit and booties you can use all day, even after your lesson
• A snack and beverage picnic on the beach after your lessons
• General beach-style hanging out with other Outdoor Adventure Club folks after your surfing: depending on wind and beach conditions, we can play Frisbee, or head back into the water on your own.
• SKILL IMPROVEMENT DISCOUNT: receive a 10% discount toward your next OAC surf class in 2006

Package with Gear Rentals but No Lessons:
•epoxy/fiberglass board, wetsuit, booties
• Snacks and beverages picnic-on-the-beach for after your lessons


No Lessons or Gear:
Already know how to surf, have gear and just want to come out and meet other OAC surfers, practice and hang with us for the day? Great! Join us! There is a coordination and lunch fee.

Pricing:
OAC Member: $70 with lesson and gear package / $40 gear rentals and lunch / $15 no gear or lessons
Non-member: $85 with lesson and gear package / $50 gear rentals and lunch / $20 with no gear or lessons

May 14 Flying Trapeze! Fly like you're in the circus!
     "I never thought I’d be flying through the air on a flying trapeze, and now, I’m hooked!" Our club members love this trip! Did you always want to try those feats like the "daring young men and women" on the flying trapeze? Now is your chance! Try the FLYING TRAPEZE in an outdoor private setting in the heart of the wine country in Sonoma! No experience needed! If you’ve been before, advance your flying skills! Try hanging upside down and doing the splits! Or, come back and try a return!
     Everyone wears a safety harness and learns to fly over safety nets. You may even be caught!
OAC has arranged a private 2 hour class (11:00-1:00 pm). We get the whole rig to ourselves! Optionally, after our lessons, there are many great wineries to explore. Enjoy the afternoon and toast your accomplishments!

Includes:
* Two hour private lesson for our group with class size between 5 and 8 students
* Snacks and beverages for after
* Wine tasting coordination for after for those who are interested

Pricing:
OAC Member: $49
Non-member: $69

May 14 Ladies Climbing Clinic at Castle Rock
     Here is one for the ladies in the group who want to learn a new sport surrounded by GIRL POWER!.
     Your guide, Annie, will introduce you to outside rock climbing on the rock walls at Castle Rock State Park outside of Saratoga. First timer and beginner climbers will be introduced to rock climbing in this great outdoor environment.
     This OAC activity is designed to introduce beginner climbers to the exciting sport of outdoor rock climbing — an adventure that delivers great fun, beautiful scenery, and real physical and mental stimulation. There’s nothing like the exhilaration of embracing the face of a cliff 30-80 feet up, stretching to reach the next hand hold, and telling yourself: I can do it, mind over matter, I can do it. Then, stretching just a bit farther—grabbing it. You did it! You then rappel down like you’re dancing on the walls. You feel like Spiderman! (er, Spiderwoman!)
     Indoor climbers, you too will enjoy getting out of the gym and out on to real rock! This is a great way to get those gym shoes dirty.
     This is a "Learn As You Play" adventure. Our professional guides will cover equipment, terminology, safety, basic climbing and belaying, and footwork. Then, everyone gets on the wall to climb, climb, climb!
     Group size will be very small (6 maximum) so early sign up is advised. Event lasts from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm!
     OAC climbing guides do more than just set top ropes. They coach you, encourage you when you need it, encourage you more when you want it, and help you develop better climbing technique.
     After a day of hard, fun climbing, nothing’s better than relaxing with your climbing friends. After we climb we can head down to Saratoga for pizza and beer, or whatever we fancy.

Includes:

• One day of guided climbing
• All gear including shoes, harness, belay devices, helmets
• OAC EXCLUSIVE SKILL IMPROVEMENT DISCOUNT: Often it takes more than just one day of professional instruction to learn, improve and master a sport like this. After participating in this class, you will receive a 10% discount on your next OAC rock climbing class you take in the next 90 days.

Pricing:
OAC Member: $89
Non-member: $104

May 14-16 Waterfalls, Hiking, Photography and Tent Cabins in Yosemite - Sunday- Tuesday
     Spring is a perfect time of year to visit Yosemite. The waterfalls are flowing full force, the temperature in the valley hasn’t gotten hot yet, and most important, the crowds haven’t overrun the place. It’s a great time to hike, and an excellent time to take pictures in the park.
     We’ve reserved 2 riverside tent cabins in Housekeeping Camp in Yosemite Valley for Sunday and Monday nights. More information about Housekeeping Camp is included below.
     Arrive when you’d like on Sunday afternoon. We can spend the afternoon scouting locations for the perfect picture.
     Each day we’ll go on a different hike, led by your experienced Outdoor Adventure Club guide. We’ll pick the hikes based on the interest of the group, and the trail conditions. Maybe a charge up the Yosemite Falls trail? Maybe a saunter to Mirror Lake?
     Each afternoon, in the “golden hour” of light that makes photographs amazing, we’ll head to one of the many postcard perfect spots in the park to capture the beauty on film- does anyone still use film?

     The hit list for photography could include:  Half Dome from Curry Village, Half Dome from the Yosemite Falls Trail,
The waterfalls from the valley floor, El Capitan from El Cap Meadows, El Cap from its base- a perspective that only climbers usually see, Half Dome, El Cap and the entire valley from the Wawona Tunnel, The Merced River and its bridges, from many spots, The Muir tree

     If we’re feeling really spicy, and the weather cooperates, we can set up some double or long exposures of the rock walls and the full moon.

Digital Photo Slideshow and Contest:
On Monday night, as we gather around our campfire, we’ll have a slide show of the pictures we’ve taken so far. We’ll pick our favorite, and the winning pictures will be showcased on the Outdoor Adventure Club website. There’ll be a separate category for point & shoot, and SLR cameras. Winners will also receive a nice bottle of wine-perfect for sharing with friends around a Yosemite campfire, hint, hint.

We’ll be balancing the desires of everyone there- if you are more interested in hiking, let us know. If you are more interested in photography, let us know.

Includes:
* Tent cabin shared accommodations for Sunday and Monday nights
* Guided hiking in Yosemite on Sunday afternoon, Monday and Tuesday
* Meals included on this trip are breakfast, lunch and dinner on Monday, and Tuesday breakfast and lunch.

Pricing:
OAC Member: $159
Non-member: $199

Although Housekeeping tent cabins can theoretically hold 6 people each, we are limiting this trip to 6 people total so we aren't sleeping on top of each other. Sign up early!

May 20-21 Hike & Camp near Santa Cruz

     Come ROCK CLIMB at Pinnacles National Monument, only 90 minutes south of San Jose near Hollister. Come out for 2 days of climbing and great camping on Friday and Saturday night (1 day options are also available).
     Beginner and Beyond Beginners are welcome. There will be two levels of climbing available.
     BEGINNERS: First timers and beginner climbers will be introduced to rock climbing in this great outdoor environment. This OAC activity is designed to introduce beginner climbers to the exciting sport of outdoor rock climbing — an adventure that delivers great fun, beautiful scenery, and real physical and mental stimulation. There’s nothing like the exhilaration of clinging to a rock face, 75 feet off the ground, testing your balance and your confidence as you step up to make the next move. After you make it, you get to lower down like you’re dancing on the walls. You feel like Spiderman!
     Indoor climbers, you'll enjoy getting out of the gym and on to real rock! Pinnacles offers remote and incredibly beautiful climbing in the 5.5-5.12+ level.
     This is a "Learn As You Play" adventure for beginners and beyond beginners. The beginner class teaches you everything you need to know for when you get that urge to go climb a wall! The class is designed as a basic introduction to rock climbing. Our guides will cover equipment, terminology, safety, basic anchoring and footwork. Then, everyone gets on the walls and climbs, climbs, climbs!
     We will continue to set up and change top ropes for everyone so the climbs are as easy or difficult as you'd like!
     This day is designed for those who already know the basics of rock climbing, who are competent with their belay technique, and want to get right on the wall. Climb on! Interested students can also observe the processes involved in setting up top ropes and building anchors.
     OAC climbing guides do more than just set top ropes. They coach you, encourage you when you need it, encourage you more when you want it, and help you develop better climbing technique.
     After climbing, OAC has reserved camping so you can relax after your climbs. This is always a welcome way to finish your climbing day! OAC staff will fill you with scrumptious meals and keep you entertained. It's during the camping when friendships form, and club members really get to know each other.

Includes:
* 2 full days of climbing instruction by professional climbing guides who are trained, insured and make safety their number one concern
* All climbing gear including shoes, harness, helmets, ropes and gear
* 2 nights of camping, Friday and Saturday
* Meals for Saturday and Sunday breakfast and lunch for those camping (bring lunches for yourselves on Saturday)

Pricing:
OAC Member: $225*
Non-member: $275*


May 20  Rappel at Castle Rock State Park
     Here is a unique trip for those who have wanted to bounce down the walls like Spiderman. And ADVENTURE RACERS, here is a chance to experience rappelling and learn the basics... before your adventure race! This is not a climbing trip, but a chance for you to get your adrenaline pumping as you rappel off an 80 foot cliff, several times.
     No experience is necessary. All gear (ropes, helmets, harness and rappel devices) is provided, along with instruction from our professional rock climbing guides who will lead this day.
     The day begins at 10:00 am when you will meet the group and be given your helmet, harness and rappel device. Then it is a scenic 1 mile hike in to Goat Rock, an area known for great beginner and advanced climbing. Your guide will then set up the anchor gear that will support the rappel ropes. The plan is to do at least two rappels, and more if there is time. The first rappel is over an area where you can rappel down while using your feet to push off the wall. This will get you used to the gear and comfortable. The second rappel will be off the "Great Roof" where you will be on a safety rope before backing over the edge and doing an 80 foot free rappel (meaning no wall to bounce off) past caves to the ground.
     After the rappel, we'll loop back on our hike out to see the Castle Rock waterfalls before continuing back to the cars.
     Total distance is about 2 miles of hiking.
     Experience needed: none. Trip goes from 10:00 am. and will finish around 5 pm, depending on how many folks there are, and how fast everyone moves through their rappels.

Includes:
• Guided rappel instruction (minimum of 3 rappels, possibly more)
• All gear
You just need to bring your own lunch, and day pack to carry your helmet and harness, and a camera!

Pricing:
OAC Member: $80
Non-member: $100

If you have a group interested in learning to rappel, we can customize this day just for you. Give us a call to set it up.
 

May 20-21 Rock Climbing & Camping at Pinnacles (climb 1 or 2 days)

     Two great days of hiking in the Santa Cruz/Aptos area, and a night of camping at the amazing New Brighton Beach Park.
     Rather than go home after a hike, take the whole day to relax. Come back to our campsite and trade campfire stories with your OAC hiking companions.
     Wake up on Sunday to coffee and camp cooking, then we'll set out for another great hike.

Includes:
*Guided hiking for Saturday and Sunday
*Camping fees for the coveted New Brighton Beach Park site
*Meals for Saturday night and Sunday morning

Pricing:
OAC Member: $95
Non-member: $130

The hikes can be done as day trips as well as the full weekend.

camping is limited to 7 people.

May 24     Intro to Kitesurfing- Kite control- Wednesday night

     Kiteboarding is extremely exciting and exhilarating. You can cruise effortlessly on flat water, catch huge air, do crazy tricks, or kitesurf in the waves.
   Learning Kiteboarding is 80% kite control. Before taking a kiteboarding beginner lesson, learn to fly a trainer kite to learn the fundamentals of flying a bar controlled kite. You will learn the kiteboarding wind window�, the equipment that is required for kiteboarding, how to launch, fly and land a 2 line trainer kite, as well as additional exercises to practice on your own after the clinic. The average person takes between 20-40 hours of total practice and lessons before they are consistently riding on the board. Starting with a trainer kite will accelerate your learning curve. All equipment included.
     After the clinic, you'll have the option to purchase a trainer kite for $125 plus tax.

Includes:
-1 1/2 hour introduction to kite flying with certified kiting instructors
-all equipment is included

space is limited, don't miss out on this one

Pricing:
OAC Member: $40
Non-member: $50

Clinic takes place Wednesday afternoon, at 6:30
Location: Marina Green, San Francisco

May 27-29 Memorial Day  Camping Weekend at Lake Eleanor in Yosemite

     Last year we had so much fun at Lake Eleanor that we have to do it again this year.
     What a great way to spend the 3 day weekend. Once again we’ll bring a few kayaks with us. We’ll bring a bunch of great food, and we’ll all have a great time. With all the late season snow we are getting we’re not even thinking of backpacking to Kibbie Lake this time!
     We’ll start on Saturday with a short, 2 mile hike into camp. If you are bringing a canoe or kayak you can paddle right to our campsite! Once camp is set up, we’ll have the rest of the 3 day weekend to hike, paddle and explore the northwest corner of Yosemite.
     If the trail conditions allow, we’ll make another charge to Kibbie Lake as a day trip from our camp. If not, there is a nearby waterfall to explore, as well as miles and miles of hiking trails that take off from the lake. If that seems like too much effort on this weekend, no problem. Sit back in camp with a book, and really relax. Relax like you haven’t allowed yourself to relax in a long time. No appointments, no cell phones, nothing you have to do all weekend long. Enjoy!
     We’ll bring along a couple of kayaks for you to use as well. the paddling is easy around the lake. Take an early morning paddle as the sun is rising and you’ll remember why you came to the woods. The peace and the natural beauty is truly amazing.
     On Monday, you’ll have the option of leaving early, or stretching your time in the woods as long as you’d like. Whatever you think will make the weekend perfect.

Includes:
* Experienced guides
* A couple of kayaks and PFDs (life jackets) for your enjoyment around the lake
* All commercial and wilderness permits
* Meals: Saturday dinner through Monday breakfast
* Group kitchen gear (stoves, pots & pans)
* Water filters
* Group first aid kit
* Map of the area

Pricing:
OAC Member: $190
Non-member: $230
 

May 27-29 Eighth Annual Memorial Day Raft Rendezvous! Raft the Cal Salmon & Scott, 3 days (Class IV-V)

     Have an unforgettable Memorial Day weekend while you ride the wild white water of the Cal Salmon and Scott Rivers in Northern California. Everyone LOVES this trip! The Class 4 rapids on the first day will allow you to get your strokes down, and confidence up before you spend the next two days on exciting Class 5 wave trains, holes and rapids. We’ll have a base camp where we can relax in the evenings, enjoy three great meals a day, and take in the beauty of California’s Northern border. It is a long drive to get there (between 6 & 8 hours depending on traffic) but everyone attests that it is SOOOOO worth the drive once you arrive.

NOTES:
* Arrive any time you like on Friday or by 9 a.m. on Saturday morning. Carpool lists will be sent the Tuesday before the trip to participants.

* We will provide great catered camping every night at the same spot (you won't be moving your camping gear every night), gourmet meals both on and off the river, and campsite fun!
You just need to bring your personal camping gear (tent, sleeping bag and pad) and we'll supply the rest! If you need gear, let us know as we can arrange a rental for you for nominal fees.
* Wetsuits can be rented for $15/day, payable directly to the outfitter. Just let us know your size when you make your reservation.

About the Cal Salmon: This free flowing springtime run is California's finest and most impressive whitewater canyon. Carving a spectacular gorge through the remote and beautiful Salmon Mountains, it has appropriately earned National Wild River designation. This run provides superb scenery with side creek waterfalls and thick forests between the wild rapids Bloomer, Airplane, Cascade, Big Joe and Freight Train. This trip is challenging and is recommended for the active, and adventurous guests looking for a real whitewater experience.

THE TRIP Arrive Friday night or by 9 a.m. on Saturday morning. After breakfast (provided) we will shuttle you to the put-in point (approximately 20 minutes). There will be a river safety talk as we gear up for the river. The first day of the trip will begin on the Class IV stretch from Butler Creek to Oak Bottom. With rapids like Butler's Ledge, Double Drop, Contusion, Gaping Maw, and Wooley Booley this section will be a warm up to the Class V stretch on the second day. At mid-day we will stop for a gourmet lunch on a sandy beach with breathtaking views of the canyon and perhaps a hike up to a waterfall. The second half of the day continues through many Class IV rapids and as the river is joined by Wooley Creek it mellows out for a couple of miles before we reach take-out. We will head back to camp where you can relax, fish, swim, or take a nap. The evening meal will be followed by dessert, campfire entertainment, and an incredible night under the stars. In the morning you will wake to the wonderful smell of coffee and breakfast. After another hearty gourmet meal we will be off to Freight Train and several other Class IV & V rapids that are part of this impressive day. We will serve lunch at beautiful side stream before heading off to the take-out where you will be able to enjoy pictures taken by a local photographer. Our shuttle vehicle will then take you back to camp and another gourmet meal and campsite entertainment.

Monday morning will have an early wake up call. We need to pack up our camp and cars, eat breakfast, then we all drive to the put in of the Scott River, about 1.5 hours East. About 10 am we will be at the river banks for this rare spring time run. We'll leave the cars here, and shuttle you to the put-in point. There will be another river safety talk while we gear up for the river. The first section of the trip starts out with a bang through several Class IV & V rapids. We will stop for a gourmet lunch on a sandy beach with breathtaking views of the canyon. The second half of the day continues through many Class IV-V rapids and before being joined by The Klamath the river mellows out for just a couple of miles. When we reach take-out on the green lawn of Steelhead Lodge the cold drinks will be waiting. Our day should finish about 4-5 pm on Monday (of course, that all depends on how fast the water is flowing.) From here, it is easy to get on Hwy 5 and head home that route.

NOTE: for those who can't make the Monday rafting, there is an option to leave from the Cal Salmon on Sunday night or Monday morning. See pricing for that option.

Includes:
• 3 days of guided rafting (Sat, Sun, Mon)
• 3 nights camping (Fri, Sat, Sun)
• All meals from Saturday breakfast to Monday lunch

Pricing:
OAC Member: $395 (2 day raft option for Cal Salmon on Sat/Sun is $325)
Non-member: $440 (2 day raft option for Cal Salmon on Sat/Sun is $350)

June 17 PARTY!!! It's our 10 year anniversary party at Mission Cliffs

     This is it- the big OAC anniversary party!
Once again we're celebrating another year of fun, and kicking off the summer season with a blowout at Mission Cliffs climbing gym in San Francisco. This year is extra special as it's our 10 year anniversary!
     We're taking over the entire gym from 7:30 to 11:00. We'll have food, beer, wine, and a huge raffle. It'll be the biggest get together of Outdoor Adventure Club folks all year- it's the best chance to see friends from the club, or meet the OAC staff and many of the members.
     If you have a Mission Cliffs belay card, you'll have access to the climbing walls all night. If you don't know how to climb we'll be teaching introductory climbing from 7:30- 8:30.
     We'll be giving away some great prizes and recognizing some of you for your accomplishments this past year, and of course we'll be naming a new member of the year, and giving them a coveted member of the year vest.
     Everyone who attends will receive a raffle ticket, and more tickets will be available for purchase at the event. A portion of the proceeds from the raffle will be donated to a worthy cause. We are shopping for worthy causes now. If you have any ideas, let us know.
     We'll have a projector showing pictures from the past year all night. If you have any pictures you'd like to add to our slide show, email them to us. We'd love to include them.

It's your club- you design the logo! contest
We're thinking it's time to retire the red and yellow bike logo the club's used for the past 10 years. Rather than go to a design firm, we decided to give you the chance to design the OAC logo to be used for the next 10 years.
Submit your design before June 14. We'll present the three best designs at the party and put them to a vote. The winning design gets an Outdoor Adventure Club membership, some OAC trips, and the admiration of all the other OAC members.

RSVP is required so we can make sure to have enough food and drinks for everyone.
The first 20 people to RSVP will receive an Outdoor Adventure Club Lexan water bottle. Sign up today!

Pricing:
OAC Member: $25 RSVP required
Non-member: $35 RSVP required

June 24-25 Backpack Smith Peak in Yosemite

     A beautiful 16-mile semi loop above the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. Spend the night under a starry sky enjoying one of the most phenomenal views in the Yosemite high country. The Outdoor Adventure Club trip to Smith Peak is always an early season favorite. The high point of the trip, literally and figuratively, is the view from the summit of Smith Peak. The views of the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and the lofty peaks of the Sierra Nevada surround you once you have made it to the top. Last time we were there, several courageous campers slept under the stars on the rocky summit. I highly recommend it!

The hike up to Smith Peak is 7 1/2 miles long, and gains 3150 feet of elevation along the way. This is considered a moderate trip.

Includes:
• Experienced guides, certified as Wilderness First Responders
• A map of the hike
• All necessary permits for backpacking in Yosemite
• A delicious dinner on Saturday on top of Smith Peak
• Sunday breakfast and lunch
• Group cooking gear (stoves, pots, water filters)
• Group first aid supplies
• Guided hiking on Saturday, Sunday

You need to supply your personal backpacking gear: backpack, tent, sleeping bag, pad, appropriate clothing, and personal items.

A complete gear list will be sent to you with your reservation confirmation.

The Outdoor Adventure Club has a supply of backpacking gear available for rent. Let us know if you need to rent gear.

Pricing:
OAC Member: $149
Non-member: $189

July 1-3 Celebrate the 4th, 2- or 3-Day Overnight Raft trip on the American

     Here's an OAC July 4th tradition... rafting and camping on the American River! It is the perfect blend of relaxation punctuated by adrenaline!
     On this overnight raft trip, you will see sections of the Middle Fork of the American that you never see on a 1 day trip. The trip is being offered as a 3-day/2-night trip OR a 2-day/1-night adventure. Let us know when you sign up what your preference is. Both trips start together on Saturday morning in Auburn. The 2-day folks will come off the river on Sunday afternoon, while the 3-day paddlers will carry on paddling to sections of the Middle Fork that few people see! They will come off the river on Monday afternoon (this is the day most companies/banks observe July 4th and give you your well deserved day off!).
     Everyone will have plenty of time to relax on the river, then prepare yourself for incredible class 4 rapids that punctuate your journey! When you're in the rapids, your heart is pumping and your adrenaline is kicking in as your boat bursts through the frothy waters and maneuvers around rocks and holes. And when you're not in the rapids, you will be awed and relaxed by the incredible scenery. The Middle Fork of the American is notorious for its Tunnel Chute rapid. This class 4 ride will get your blood pumping. However, you will see other class 4 rapids not experienced in the typical 1 day trip.
     During this wilderness-style trip, you will camp on the sand bars along the way. Pack your sleeping bag and personal gear and we put them in dry bags and transport them down river in gear boats. Be prepared for a night where the fireworks are from fireflies and brilliantly sparkling stars. Most people sleep under the stars, but you are welcome to bring a tent if you like. Throughout the weekend, you will be pampered with gourmet meals (yes, on the river!), and fireside socializing and entertainment.
     First time paddlers are welcome if you are fit and have an adventurous spirit. Our outfitter will provide experienced river guides who will coach you and teach beginners the skills needed to be a part of a strong rafting team.
     What a great way to celebrate the 4th!
     Directions to our meeting spot, trip details, and a carpool list will be sent out a week before the trip. We will meet in the parking lot behind the Raleys off Foresthill Road just past Auburn at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning.

Includes:

• 2 or 3 days of rafting on Saturday, Sunday and Monday (2-day rafters will raft on Saturday and Sunday)
• wilderness camping on on the river
• Meals from Saturday lunch through Sunday lunch for 2 day paddlers, 3-day paddlers will have gourmet meals until Monday lunch

Pricing:
OAC Member: 3-day trip: $395 // 2-day trip: $295
Non-member: 3-day trip: $440 // 2-day trip: $340

CANCELLATION POLICY FOR THIS TRIP: Reserve early for this long holiday weekend. Fifty percent non-refundable deposit required for this event to reserve a spot.
Members: If you must cancel or reschedule for any reason (including being sick, having to work, change of mind) within 14 days of the trip, a $80 cancellation fee will be charged to your account. If you cancel for any reason (including being sick, having to work, change of mind, transportation problems) within 7 days of the trip, or are a no-show, you will be billed the member cost of the trip. Trip fees are not transferable to other OAC outings.
Non-members: If you cancel anytime between when you sign up for the trip and 14 days prior to the start of the trip, you will be refunded all but $80 of your fee. If you must cancel or reschedule (for any reason including being sick, having to work, change of mind, transportation problems) within 14 days or are a no-show, no refund is given, unless you replace your space in the activity or it is filled from OAC’s waiting list. If it is filled through OAC, a $80 cancellation fee will be deducted from your refund. Trip fees are not transferable to other OAC outings.

August 3-4    Learn to Backpack in Yosemite, mid week

     This is your trip!
     Creek-side trails. Granite peaks. Mirror like lakes. Incredible views of one of the most beautiful alpine environments anywhere. All this in our 2-day, 3-mile (plus or minus, depending on trail conditions) round trip backpacking clinic in Yosemite! This is a great beginner trip. The distances we cover are short, the scenery is great, and the information presented by our experienced, professional guides is invaluable.
     On this learn as you play adventure, you'll learn to pick a campsite and set up camp, filter water, use a stove, pack your pack efficiently, select food, and choose equipment and clothing. You’ll learn secrets to staying warm and comfortable while sleeping, how to bear-proof your camp, and we’ll even throw in an introduction to reading maps and using a compass. Throughout the course we’ll have an emphasis on minimal impact camping, trying to leave the area in the same or better condition than we found it, so the next person there can enjoy it as much as we do.
     Outdoor Adventure Club guides are professional, certified as Wilderness First Responders, very experienced, and love to share their knowledge. On top of all of that, your classroom is a remote campsite in an incredibly beautiful setting! How can you go wrong?
     We’ll meet 1:00 pm on Thursday, giving us plenty of time to get to Yosemite. Each day is just 1 ½ miles of rolling terrain past spectacular vistas. We’ll set up camp in a remote backpacker campsite near May Lake in the Tuolumne Meadows area of Yosemite National Park and enjoy a marvelous dinner under the stars! Friday, after fresh pressed coffee and hot breakfast at camp, you'll loop back to the cars.
     Level of experience recommended: This trip is designed for first time backpackers, but all other levels are welcome! If you are on the Rafferty Creek trip on 8/5/06, this could be a nice relaxing start to the weekend. You may just learn something new!
     We require that you be in good physical health, and have previously hiked at least a 4-mile hike without discomfort.

Includes:
• Permits for hiking/ camping * Tents (shared) * Meals including Thursday dinner, Friday breakfast, Friday snack lunch on the way out * Water purifiers and group cooking gear * First aid supplies * 2 days of guided hiking and education on backpacking basics for those who are eager to learn as they enjoy a great overnight in the woods! You need to supply:
Your personal gear including sleeping bag, pad, backpack, clothing, hiking boots, headlamps or flashlights. A complete gear list will be sent to you with your reservation. Packs, sleeping bags and pads are available to rent from the Outdoor Adventure Club.

Pricing:
OAC Member: 159
Non-member: 199

Optional Pre-trip meeting at Lombardi Sports:
We’ll be hosting an introduction to backpacking gear clinic at Lombardi Sports in San Francisco on Thursday July 27th, from 6:00- 8:00 pm. During this in-store meeting we’ll help you make sense of all the gear available today, and show you the gear that is optimal for the trip. If you are renting a backpack or other gear from us, you can pick it up at the meeting.
Remember, Outdoor Adventure Club members always receive a 15% discount at Lombardi Sports on non-sale purchases.

August 5-6    Fast and light in Yosemite- Vogelsang- Lyell Canyon

Details coming soon for this event.  If you have any questions you can ask richard@OutdoorAdventureClub.com

August 17-20 Backpack The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne in Yosemite

     We’ve taken one of our all time favorite backpacking trips and made it better! The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is one of the most beautiful backpacking trips ever. It covers just under 30 miles of amazing terrain, along waterfalls, and in the shadow of granite domes. It is a trip not to be missed. Historically we’ve always done this trip in three days. In three days you see some amazing scenery, but don’t have time to sit down and enjoy it. We have added a fourth day to this trip, giving us more time to enjoy the river as we hike through.

Itinerary Arrive in Yosemite on Wednesday evening (Aug. 16) or by 10 a.m. on Thursday (Aug. 17). We'll provide camping and breakfast for those who arrive on Wednesday evening. We’ll start our backpacking trip on Thursday morning at Tuolumne Meadows, hiking along the Tuolumne River, our companion throughout the trip. We’ll pass the Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp and make our way past several waterfalls as we descend into the canyon.

With a variety of riverside campsite opportunities available to us, we’ll have some flexibility in the distances we cover each day, but you can expect between 5 and 8 miles per day. The first three days should be pleasant as we follow the river downstream. We’ll be camping by the river each night and should have time to cool off each day in the river- bring something to swim in! Our last day will be a tough one, as we climb out of the canyon. It’s over 8 miles of uphill hiking, gaining about 4000 feet of vertical along the way. The memories from three days of beautiful hiking should be enough to keep your mind off the enduring climb. We should finish our trip late in the day on Sunday.

Along the way, your Outdoor Adventure Club guide will impart backpacking knowledge and tips, and prepare some of the finest backpacking food you could think of. Even seasoned backpackers enjoy the Outdoor Adventure Club’s "catered" backpacking experience.

What to bring:
A more extensive gear list will be sent with your confirmation. Let us know if you need to rent gear. The Outdoor Adventure Club has some gear available to rent.
* Tent
* Sleeping bag rated for 35ºF or colder
* Sleeping pad
* Backpack (60-80 liter, no daypacks)
* Rugged, supporting, waterproofed hiking boots
* Water bottles or Camelback
* Personal toiletries
* Gore-Tex or other rain jacket and pants
If you are interested in making the trip as easy as possible, we can help you outfit yourself in “fast and light” style. Your back will appreciate it, especially on the long uphill day! Email Richard@OutdoorAdventureClub.com for more information on the lightweight option.

Includes:
o Professional guides, members of the American Mountain Guides Association, certified in Advanced Wilderness First Aid
o 4 days of guided backpacking
o 4 nights camping and special use wilderness permits in Yosemite National Park
o All meals from Friday breakfast to Monday lunch
o Group gear including, cooking stoves, water filters, and first aid gear

Pricing:
OAC Member: $240
Non-member: $300

Limited to just 7 people, so sign up early.
Currently, this trip is scheduled to be led by both Annie and Jed- you don't have to decide who you like more!

More trips are always being added to the calendar ... more climbing, kayaking, hikes, backpacking, almost everything! Stay tuned for a fully packed Spring calendar to be released soon!

Use this valuable coupon for $10.00 off any event.

For further information on any of the adventures above, please email Bay Area Outdoor Adventure Club at adventures@outdooradventureclub.com