July – September 2016 Schedule

VENTURE OUTDOORS trailhead Connecting Everyone with the Outdoors Did You Know… Board of Directors Venture Outdoors is a 501(c)3 charitable nonprofit organization. We are dedicated to Alice Johnston, Board Chair connecting everyone to the benefits of outdoor recreation throughout Southwestern Drew Lessard, Vice Chair & Treasurer . We provide a variety of activities that inspire an active lifestyle, promote Erik Agostoni, Secretary the region’s unique amenities, highlight its excellent quality of life, and foster a greater Todd Owens, Past Chair appreciation for the environment. L. Todd Becker Abby Corbin Here’s how we do it… Becoming a member helps us… Dennis Henderson With more than 700 outings and events • Get children and low–income families David Hunt each year, people of all ages, families, kids, outside and active, experiencing the Lindsay Patross and even pets, can enjoy our first–rate wonder and beauty of outdoor Darlene Schiller outdoor recreation. recreation Robert J. Standish • Develop adaptive outdoor recreation Geoff Tolley Members save on outings, but everyone is programs for people with disabilities David Wolf welcome. Want to create a unique group experience? Call about customized outings. • Fund our continued efforts to promote Staff healthy lifestyles throughout Venture Outdoors also runs Southwestern Pennsylvania Joey–Linn Ulrich, Executive Director and operates a 24’ portable climbing wall to bring fun to your next festival, PROGRAM DEPARTMENT community day, or corporate event. Lora Woodward, Director Liz Fager, Community Program Manager And join us each spring for two of our most Jim Smith, Equipment and Facilities Manager popular events – the Banff Mountain Film Lora Hutelmyer, Youth Program Manager Festival at the Carnegie Library and Music Jake Very, Custom Program Coordinator Hall of Homestead and the Venture Billy Dixon, Program Administrator Outdoors Festival in .

KAYAK PITTSBURGH Membership Has Its Benefits Membership Levels Vanessa Bashur, Director Time to renew your Membership or join for Student /Senior – $15 (Students or DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS the first time? Go to ventureoutdoors.org Seniors age 62+) Donna L. Bour, Director to show your support of our programs and Individual – $25 Kathi Radock, Membership and Volunteer mission to connect people to the outdoors! Manager Dual – $35 (any two members of the same household) Jessica Wiegand, Communications and As a Member you save everyday on Media Coordinator outing fees, rentals at Kayak Pittsburgh, Family – $50 (up to six members of the same household) Jayme Penner, Membership and and invitations to Members only outings Special Projects Coordinator and events. Trailblazer – $75 ADMINISTRATION Paddler – $100 Don’t miss these great benefits any Adriane Harrison, Human Resources Ranger – $125 longer – become a Member now at Manager Steward – $250 Sherry Buckham, Operations Administrator ventureoutdoors.org. Trustee – $500 Have a question about Membership? Pathfinder – $1,000 Trip Leader Council Email [email protected] or call 412.255.0564, ext. 224. All members receive: Nanci Goldberg • Discounts of up to 40% on Venture Joel Johnston Thank you for your continued support! Nancy Latimer Outdoors outings Erin McCormick • $5 off your first hour at either Kayak Henry Schumacher Pittsburgh location and savings on Sheila Stagnitta Kayak Pittsburgh season passes Orville Steininger Christen Stroh • Invitations to free Members only Kevin Thomson VENTURE outings (selected each month by the Joe Walko OUTDOORS Venture Outdoors Programming Team) and events Members at the Steward level and above also receive the following for up to six members of the same household:

Contributor Choice #1529517 • Two FREE Kayak Pittsburgh 1–hour rental vouchers • Two FREE general admissions to the Banff Mountain Film Festival

2 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG Levels of Difficulty Table of Contents This terminology is general. Please refer Membership p. 2 Fishing p. 5 Paddling p. 11 to program description for specifics. The Levels of Difficulty p. 3 p. 6 Kayaking p. 11 Stand Up Paddle Boarding p. 14 activity information is accurate at the How to Sign Up p. 3 Backpacking p. 9 Specialty Hikes p. 9 Canoeing p. 15 time of printing. Occasionally, an activity’s Biking p. 4 information is altered before its start Rock Climbing and Caving p. 16 Family p. 4 date. You will receive the most recent Workshops p. 16 information when you register. RELAXED • Short distances at a slow pace • Generally flat terrain, well defined • No prior activity experience is necessary How to Sign Up • Perfect start for beginners If at any point in the process you have a question • Not too physically challenging ONLINE Visit ventureoutdoors.org. or would like assistance, please call 412.255.0564, EASY x0 or email [email protected]. • Short distances at a slow pace Members Registrations are confirmed within 1–2 business days. • Relatively flat terrain, well defined trails, • Click Sign In at the top right corner of the may involve some hills homepage, enter your email address and • No prior activity experience is necessary password, then navigate to Activities Calendar MORE INFORMATION • Perfect start for beginners and select your outing. We will provide you with an information sheet that • Not too physically challenging includes meeting time and location, directions, MODERATE Non-Members and a list of what to wear and bring. Participants • Varying distances at a steady pace • Click Join Today at the top right corner of the provide their own transportation and food unless otherwise noted. • Varying terrain, fairly established trails homepage to become a Member and start saving on outings OR navigate to Activities • Some prior experience in the activity is Calendar and select your outing. required ACCOMMODATIONS • Physically challenging, only for those in Next Steps If you need an accommodation to participate, good physical condition • Click on the Register button which takes you please call 412.255.0564 or email info@ ADVANCED to the next page. That’s where you select who ventureoutdoors.org. • Fast–paced over a short distance or is attending. steady–paced over a long distance • Check the boxes for all family members you CANCELLATION POLICY • Varying terrain, may include off– wish to register. sections, rough spots, unexpected Refunds are processed for cancellations – If you are registering someone who is made at least three business days (Monday – obstacles NOT a Member, enter information in the Friday) in advance. Simply email registration@ • Prior experience in the activity is required Other Participants fields. Then click Add ventureoutdoors.org or call 412.255.0564, ext. 0 • Physically challenging, only for those in Participant. Cancellations cannot be made on our website. good physical condition • Once all participants have been added, check I STRENUOUS agree to Venture Outdoors terms and click Next. Cancellations with insufficient notice, no–shows, and late arrivals who miss the group’s departure • Fast–paced over a short distance or • Select Save and Continue Shopping to go will not receive a refund or trip credit. fast–paced over a long distance back to the Activities Calendar and add more • Difficult terrain, will include off–trail outings. Then repeat the steps. When ready to Refunds are issued in the form of original payment sections, rough spots and unexpected check out, add discount code or gift unless otherwise requested. Paid reservations obstacles certificate numbers if applicable, then click are transferable to other participants. However, Apply! Check for accuracy, click Next, and we request advanced notice of the transfer. • Prior experience in the activity is required enter payment information on the next page. • Only for those in excellent physical condition. Most physically challenging • Ready to complete your transaction? Click Submit and you’re done! FAMILY FRIENDLY • These activities are geared toward the whole family and offer discounts for children under 18; some restrictions apply. A parent or legal guardian must sign an assumption of risk form for a participant under 18 years of age. DOG FRIENDLY • Bring your best friend along on the trip. These activities are great for both you and your dog. • The number of dogs allowed on an activity is limited AND those dogs must be registered with participants. Dogs must have licenses and up–to–date shots.

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 3 BIKING Bike rentals are available through Venture Outdoors for $8 unless otherwise noted. Reservations for rentals should be made by calling the office, 412–255–0564 after registering for the program. EASY JULY HAPPY HOUR BIKE RIDE Have a happy ride before the @PUMP_PSL July Happy Hour, sponsored by Zipcar! Join PUMP, Venture Outdoors, and Healthy Ride for an hour long ride along the South Side trail, followed by the @PUMP_PSL Happy Hour at Local Bar + Kitchen. The registration fee covers the bike ride, a helmet, and @ NORTH SHORE TRAIL RIDE PUMP_PSL Happy Hour activities, including your first beer on us! Bike rentals are available Explore the North Shore part of the Three FAMILY from Healthy Ride; please request a bike Rivers Heritage Trail with us! This 8 to 10-mile ahead of time. ride will make its way along the Allegheny and Rivers, while exploring highlights along Tuesday, July 12 the way, including sports stadiums, public art, RELAXED 6 – 7:30 PM and many of Pittsburgh’s famous bridges. Bike rentals are available from Healthy Ride; FAMILY FISHING DERBY South Side please request a bike ahead of time. We’ll provide the bait and rods, so bring Member $8, Non-Member $12 the whole family for this fun-filled catch and Saturday, September 17 release fishing derby! No need for a fishing 9 AM – 12 PM license today; it’s the PA Fish and Boat RIVERFRONT TRAIL RIDE Commission’s Fish for Free Day. Pittsburgh has bike trails along all three of its North Shore rivers! Our knowledgeable guides will show Member $10, Non-Member $15 Monday, July 4 you how to connect the trails smoothly on this 9 AM – 11 AM 12–15 mile ride. Expect a great tour of the city and its riverfronts with plenty of interesting MODERATE stops along the way. FREE SUNDAY RIDE ON THE TRAIL Saturday, July 16 Southwestern PA has many bike trails to 1 – 4 PM explore. We will pedal 20 to 25 miles out and EASY Three Rivers Heritage Trail back along local trails. The trails follow towns, streams, farmland, and woods. Bring your FAMILY NIGHT HIKE Member $8, Non-Member $12 lunch, we’ll stop for lunch along the way. Bike Bring the whole family along on a nighttime rentals are not available. hike to explore as things go “bump in the SATURDAY BIKE AND LUNCH night”! We’ll turn off our flashlights, put on Tour the City’s riverfront trails on this easy our night vision, listen for nocturnal creatures, 15–mile pedal with a midway stop for lunch! Sunday, July 31 and experiment with fun nighttime tricks. We’ll take in the sights of summer while Friday, August 12 showing you how to connect the downtown bike trails. Sunday, August 21 7:30 – 9:30 PM Hartwood Acres Saturday, July 23 Butler – Freeport Trail Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $8, Saturday, September 24 Sunday, September 18 Member Family $15 10 AM – 2 PM 9 AM – 3 PM Three Rivers Heritage Trail Member $12, Non-Member $18 ICE CREAM GEOCACHING Member $22, Non-Member $29 We’re going to look for clues and treasures using GPS (Global Positioning System) COAL AND COKE TRAIL RIDE receivers, followed by an ice cream party! As Explore the Coal and Coke Trail with us! the GPS units communicate with satellites in space, they will guide us to within a few feet of This 8 to 10 mile ride will make its way along What I liked most was seeing the Jacobs Creek and past old coke ovens. We’ll the cache locations. You and your fellow stop along the way to learn the history of the Pittsburgh sights from the bike treasure hunters will fan out and try to find the hiding places. We will provide GPS units to area, and about Jacobs Creek Watershed. path. Great outdoor activity! It Bike rentals are not available. share. A total of 2-3 miles is typically hiked “was nice to meet new Venture during this event. August 20 Outdoors members. Saturday, September 3 9 AM – 12 PM 1 – 3:30 PM Coal and Coke Trail Member $10, ” Member $12, Non-Member $18, Kids $8, Non-Member $15 Member Family $25 4 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG KIDS BIRD ID HIKE NORTH SHORE FAMILY BEGINNER PADDLE Bring the kids on this family-friendly bird Join us for a family friendly introduction to identification hike, led by one of our bird kayaking! We’ll begin by going over the basics, 15TH enthusiast volunteers! We’ll take an easy 2-3 and then get everyone out on the water for a mile hike throughout the winding trails of relaxing paddle along the Allegheny River. By ANNIVERSARY , while searching the trees and the time it’s over, everyone in your family will skies for a variety of common Southwestern be paddling like a pro! Participants must be SERIES PA birds. 12 years or older to paddle a solo boat on their own. Minimum age is 8 years old in Join Venture Outdoors as we Sunday, September 25 tandem with parent. celebrate our 15th Anniversary! 1 – 3 PM Sunday, August 21 We’re bringing back some great Schenley Park 6 – 7:30 PM outings from the past! Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5, Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore Check them out! Member Family $15 Member $18, Non-Member $24, Kids $12, ART, BIKE AND LUNCH Member Family $40 Tour the City’s riverfront trails on this KIDS OUTDOOR SKILLS: LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS easy 10 to 15-mile pedal with a midway Learn how to Leave No Trace – Sasquatch stop for lunch! We’ll take in Pittsburgh’s has been doing it for years! Join Venture many public artworks while showing you Outdoors in a fun and interactive evening to how to connect the downtown bike trails. learn the basic principles of exploring the FISHING Saturday, August 27 great outdoors. We’ll play games, have Pennsylvania Fishing License requirements 10 AM – 2 PM races, and allow for kids to discuss the apply for anyone 16 years and older. importance of following the Leave No Trace South Side conservation ethics. EASY Easy Monday, September 12 Member $22, Non-Member $29 TWO DAY BIKE WARM WATER WEEKEND 6:30 – 7:30 PM Join Dale and Cyndi Kotowski of Chestnut Venture Outdoors Office Ridge Trout Unlimited for a lesson on the DOWNTOWN WALKABOUT FREE! basics of fly fishing for smallmouth bass and Join us for a fun and informative lunchtime gain a lot of stream time with this two–day walk. We’ll take an easy paced around fishing and biking excursion. We’ll fish the the hidden natural world of the city and KIDS TREE ID HIKE Casselman River as we bike between fishing share the history and stories of the area. On this family friendly outing, all ages are holes along the Great Allegheny Passage near welcome to hike along winding paths and Rockwood, a charming riverside town. Outing Thursday, September 15 identify trees and other fascinating plants includes fly fishing guides, instruction, some 12 – 1 PM along the way. Kids will learn the basics of custom flies and accommodations. You are Downtown tree identification; an outdoor skill they responsible for providing your own food and can continue to use on the rest of their . Bike rentals are not included in the Relaxed outdoor journeys! fee, but are available to rent in Rockwood. FREE! Sunday, September 18 July 16 – July 17 1 – 3 PM 9 AM – 5 PM 3 RIVERS-3 WAYS Allegheny Commons Join us as we explore Pittsburgh’s three Rockwood rivers in three ways! We’ll paddle along the Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5, Member $160, Non-Member $210 Allegheny, bike along the Monongahela, Member Family $15 and hike along the Ohio! Previous kayaking experience required. Bike rentals available through Venture NORTH PARK FAMILY BEGINNER PADDLE MODERATE Outdoors for $8. Lunch is included in the Join us for a family–friendly introduction to outing cost. kayaking! We’ll begin by going over the Previous fly–fishing experience required for basics, and then get everyone on the water for these outings. Fishing equipment is not provided Saturday, July 2 a relaxing paddle around North Park. By the unless otherwise noted. 9 AM – 3 PM time it’s over, everyone in your family will be Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore paddling like a pro! Participants must be 12 years or older to paddle a solo boat on their YOUGH RIVER SMALLMOUTH BASS Moderate own. Kids under 12 can paddle in a tandem The Youghiogheny is a world class small- Member $50, Non-Member $67 with one adult, and very small toddlers can mouth fishery. The bass have completed ride in a tandem with two adults. spawning and will be on the prowl to feed on anything that moves. Big fish, and plenty of Thursday, July 21 them, will be the rule of the day! Then we’ll 6 – 7:30 PM enjoy an evening campfire with plenty of fish stories once the sun sets. North Park Wednesday, July 27 Member $18, Non-Member $24, Kids $12, Member Family $40 3 – 10 PM Member $65, Non-Member $86

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 5 BAT WALK Witness the dance of PA’s bat population as TRIANGLERS LUNCH TIME FISHING day turns to dusk over Wingfield Pines. We’ll walk parts of the 87–acre tract of land that Everyone is welcome to come fishing with this weekly abuts Chartiers Creek with Allegheny Land

lunchtime fishing group, the TriAnglers. Come help Yo m uG .co ottaRegatta Trust naturalists. Along the way, we’ll learn us celebrate Pittsburgh’s clean rivers and great about the types of bats found in the area and fishing opportunities right here on the North Shore of how they use echolocation to navigate and feed. Pittsburgh. Wednesdays until September 28 Friday, July 22 Venture Outdoors Trip Leaders will be on hand to help 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM the novice and expert alike learn more about this 7 – 9 PM Three Rivers Heritage Trail great destination and possibly land a trophy catch. Wingfield Pines Equipment and bait is provided. A limited selection of FREE! fishing aids are available; please contact the office for Member $8, Non-Member more information or questions. Registration is $12, Kids $6, requested but not required. Member Family, $20 FLY FISHING FOR BASS & PANFISH BIKE FISHING ON THE YOUGH BLUE HOLE DOGGIE TREK Join Dale and Cyndi Kotowski of Chestnut The major hatches have come and gone but Ridge Trout Unlimited for a day of fly fishing there are still trout to be caught and released Bring your canine companion for a social on Slippery Rock Creek. We’re going to log from the banks of the mighty Youghiogheny. hike through Blue Hole in . some time on the water with an experienced Summertime is terrestrial time: hoppers, We’ll start out by letting the dogs get to know instructor team, practicing and learning new crickets, ants, and beetles, and surprisingly, a each other, and then we’ll cover 4–5 miles out ways to finesse our fly presentation. This trip number of consistent hatches of aquatic and back along dirt roads and forest trails takes place entirely on the water and focuses insects. We will bike along the 9–mile stretch with a stop at Blue Hole, a large swimming on catching the powerful smallmouth bass of of the Great Allegheny Passage trail between hole for the dogs to enjoy. Off–leash time is Slippery Rock Creek, though trout may be Ramcat Rapids and Ohiopyle and access the included in the outing. active as well. river from points that get very little fishing Sunday, July 31 pressure. This outing will examine the whats Saturday, August 6 and whens of late summer and fall hatches Sunday, August 14 9 AM – 5 PM and we will target both trout and bass. Bike 10 AM –1 PM rentals are not included in the fee, but are McConnells Mills State Park available to rent in Ohiopyle. Blue Hole Member $65, Non-Member $86 Member $8, Non-Member $12 Saturday, September 10 NIGHT FISHING FOR BROWN TROUT 9 AM –5 PM Learn to skate dry flies for big brown trout Ohiopyle State Park that come out of hiding to feed at night. These Member $65, Non-Member $86 fish prey on large mayflies, caddisflies, and even mice! You may not see them take your fly, but you’ll feel them, so hold on tight! Wednesday, August 17 HIKING 3 – 10 PM Ohiopyle State Park EASY Member $65, Non-Member $86 BUTTERFLY WALK RELAXED Learn about the area’s native plants and TYKE HIKES butterflies with enthusiast Joseph Reznick. Come and join us for a Tyke Hike! We We’ll look for native species while welcome parents or caregivers with children along an easy trail through Emerald View Park. ages newborn to 5 years old. Explore Sunday, July 17 nature, touch the trees and look for little critters on these easy walks in the park. 10 AM – 12:30 PM Adults and children can make new play date Emerald View Park friends! Hikes will be trail–friendly for strollers, slings, child–carriers or on foot. Member $8, Strollers must be able to maneuver off road. Non-Member $12 Children on foot should wear walking shoes. We provide a craft and snacks after the hike! Weather permitting. Pre–registration SUMMER TREE ID WALK requested but not required. Ever wonder how to identify the trees in the parks and forests around you? It’s easier than Wednesday July 6 Riverview Park you think. Participants will learn basic tree Tuesday July 12 Boyce-Mayview Park identification skills and explore the forested Wednesday July 20 landscape. Tuesday July 26 Frick Park Sunday, July 17 Wednesday August 3 Allegheny Commons 9 – 11:30 AM Tuesday August 9 Hartwood Acres Dead Man’s Hollow 10 – 11:30 AM Kids $5 Member $8, Non-Member $12 6 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG WINGFIELD PINES WALK Join us for an ecological walk along Chartiers Creek in Upper Saint Clair Township. FREE Members Only Outings Ecologist Henry Schumacher will tell us about Wingfield Pines, an 80–acre tract of land FULL MOON FLOAT URBAN BIKE TOUR along the Chartiers floodplain. We’ll learn Join us for a lovely evening paddle around Pittsburgh has bike trails along all three about historical impacts to the environment North Park Lake. We will meander along rivers – really! But it takes a knowledge- from coal mining and the positive impacts that the shoreline while learning about the area able guide to connect them smoothly. You people are having on this landscape today. and sites along its shore. Then we’ll paddle can expect a great 12-15-mile tour of the Highlights include the passive abandoned to the middle of the lake and await the full city and its riverfronts with plenty of mine drainage system, mitigation wetlands, moon as it peaks in the dark night sky, interesting stops along the way via the and the wildlife that all call this site home. reflecting on the tranquil water. Previous Three Rivers Heritage Trail. Bring a paddling experience is recommended. daypack, water and snacks. We’ll do 3 Sunday, August 21 hours of easy pedaling. Bike rentals are Tuesday, July 19 10 AM – 12:30 PM available through Venture Outdoors for $8. 8:30 – 10:30 PM Reservations for rentals should be made Wingfield Pines by calling the office, 412-255-0564, after Moderate Member $8, Non-Member $12 registering for the program. Kayak Pittsburgh - North Park Saturday, August 13 GRAND HIKE FOR GRANDPARENTS 9 AM – 12 PM Celebrate National Grandparents Day with a grand hike! We’ll cover 3-5 miles on this easy Easy hike through Frick Park. Bring the whole family! Three Rivers Heritage Trail Sunday, September 11 1 – 4 PM SUNSET PADDLE Take in the sunset from the water! We’ll Frick Park take a relaxing paddle along the Allegheny Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5, River and take in the sights and sounds of the city as the sun sets. Previous paddling Member Family, $20 experience is recommended. MODERATE Friday, September 30 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM ROARING RUN DOGGIE TREK Moderate Bring your canine companion for a social Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore hike through Roaring Run Natural Area in Forbes State Forest. We’ll start out by letting the dogs get to know each other, and then we’ll cover 5–7 miles of moderate hiking trails. Off–leash time is included in the outing. HOMESTEAD HISTORY HIKE MONTOUR WOODS HIKE Sunday, July 10 Homestead Borough has seen its shares of ups Join us as we hike this 260–acre conservation Sunday, August 28 and downs since the first settlers arrived in 1770. area in Moon Township! As we explore, we’ll Sunday, September 4 Once filled with mills and factories, it’s now filled learn about the flora and fauna that are found with a rich history. Join us on this easy hike as we in the area, and about Hollow Oak Land Trust 10 AM –1 PM learn about the area, past and present. who maintain and enhance the area. This Roaring Run Natural Area moderate hike will cover 4-6 miles, and will Friday, July 15 include a stop for lunch. Please bring your Member $8, Non-Member $12 6:30 – 8:30 PM own lunch. STAR PARTY HIKE Homestead Saturday, July 30 Join us for an evening hike at Deer Lakes Member $6, Non-Member $10 10 AM –2 PM Park followed by stargazing in a large open Montour Woods meadow at the top of a gentle hill with WATERFALL HIKE Member $6, Non-Member $10 excellent views to all horizons. The Amateur Hike beside some of the most spectacular Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh will be waterfalls and whitewater rapids that along with their telescope equipment to offer Pennsylvania has to offer! We’ll cover trails COOK FOREST HISTORIC HIKE their expertise and guidance. The hike will that will range easy to difficult, talking about Discover the old growth stands and “Forest cover 3–4 miles with some hills. the history of the area along the way. Cathedral” of Cook Forest as we hike 13.6 Friday, July 8 miles through this beautiful, 8,500–acre PA McConnells Mill State Park state park. We’ll cover moderate terrain at a 7 –10 PM Sunday, July 24 steady pace while taking in the natural beauty Deer Lakes Park of the area. There will be some large climbs Ohiopyle State Park on the route. We’ll stop for lunch and periodic Member $8, Non-Member $12, Kids $6 Saturday, August 13 breaks along the way. 10 AM – 4 PM Saturday, August 6 Member $8, Non-Member $12 10 AM – 4PM Member $8, Non-Member $12 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 7 INCLINE HISTORY HIKE HIKING WITH THE STARS Only two inclines remain, but Pittsburgh once Ever wonder what goes on in the domed had many more. On this 4–mile South Side building above the North Side? Join us for a hike through an area that once had ten 2–3 mile scenic & historical hike through inclines, we will ride the Mon Incline and Riverview Park. We will explore this beautiful explore the remains of four others. Bring your city park, and then complete our evening with camera and incline fare! a short film presentation and guided tour of the Allegheny Observatory. Sunday, August 7 9 AM – 12:30 PM Friday, August 26 South Side 6:30 – 10 PM Member $18, Non-Member $12 Riverview Park Member $10, Non-Member $15 METEOR SHOWER HIKE The Perseids offer one of the most AUTUMN EQUINOX NIGHT HIKE impressive meteor showers of the year, giving Fall is here and with it comes the cool us the chance to see around 120 meteors per nights! We’re going to celebrate the sun’s hour! We’ll be hiking right at its peak and will position over the equator with a night hike cover 3-4 miles during this night hike in Deer around Hartwood Acres. We will wind along Lakes Park. We will take some time to turn off the wooded trails for 3–4 miles and view the our flashlights and look up at the sky for signs star–studded sky while enjoying the first of the meteor shower. autumn evening of the year. Saturday, August 13 Thursday, September 22 7:30 – 10 PM 6:30 – 8:30 PM Deer Lakes Park Hartwood Acres Member $8, Non-Member $12 Member $6, Non-Member $10

BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL HIKE DARK SKY NIGHT HIKE ADVANCED The Laurel Hill Bluegrass Festival brings Join us for an evening hike at Deer Lakes thousands of visitors to the park each year for Park followed by stargazing in a large open SATURDAY HIKE IN THE WOODS banjo-picking, fiddle-playing, guitar-strumming meadow at the top of a gentle hill with Come for a hike in the woods! We’ll spend the American roots music. We’ll enjoy the festival excellent views to all horizons. The Amateur day exploring different trails and natural music filter through the trees as we cover 4–6 Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh will be areas on these advanced hikes. We’ll cover miles of trail. along with their telescope equipment to offer 8-10 miles while learning about the natural their expertise and guidance. The hike will history of the area. Saturday, August 20 cover 3-4 miles with some hills. 10 AM – 2 PM Slippery Rock Gorge Trail Saturday, September 24 Saturday, July 2 7 –10 PM Member $8, Non-Member $12 Cook Forest Deer Lakes Park Saturday, August 27 Member $8, Non-Member $12 Quebec Run Wild Area I liked hiking in a location that was new to me, with a group of Saturday, September 3 others that also felt that was a fun way to spend a Friday night. 10 AM – 4 PM The trip leaders were also extremely friendly, knowledgable and made Member $8, Non-Member $12 “sure everyone was having a fun and safe time. Mid-Week Adventure” Series Join us for a mid-week adventure and get outside! Each moderately paced outing will spend the evening exploring a different part of the city by bike, foot or paddle. Join us for one or all three!

Wednesday, August 10 Hike at Riverview Park Wednesday, August 17 Paddle at Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore Wednesday, August 24 Bike at Millvale Riverfront Park 6:30 - 8:30 PM Moderate Member $12, Non-Member $18, Member Series $30

8 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG HIKE TRAIL QUEST HIKES Completing all 70 miles of the Laurel Highlands BACKPACKING Hiking Trail is one of the ultimate outdoor Neighborhood challenges that Western Pennsylvania has to offer. Join us for a series of seven separate EASY Hikes day-hikes to complete the entire LHHT starting near Ohiopyle and heading north to Johnstown. BACKPACKING LAUREL HIGHLAND HIKING TRAIL The shortest hike will be 6.8 miles and the Dust off your backpacking gear as we longest will be 13.1 miles. You will traverse experience the beauty of the Laurel Highlands. state parks, forests, game lands, and other Trip Leaders will review the basics and lead public and private lands during these hikes. us on a backpacking hike to an overnight No bus will be provided for these outings. shelter along the Laurel Highland Hiking Trail. Participants will meet at the trailhead and We’ll cover 4–5 miles each day over moderate shuttle back to the trail head after the outing. terrain. In the evening, we’ll build a campfire, eat dinner, and then let the storytelling begin. Quest #5: Saturday, July 9 Along the way, we will stop to eat and talk about the park and the flora and fauna that Quest #6: Saturday, July 23 call it home. This is a great first–time Quest #7: Saturday, July 30 backpacking trip. Cost covers guides and campsite fee. Bring your own backpacking 9:30 AM – 6 PM gear and food. Minimum age is 16. Laurel Highlands September 24–25 Member $10, Non-Member $15 10 AM – 4 PM HIGH-ENERGY MORNING HIKE Member $25, Non-Member $33 Join us for a brisk morning hike as we cover 4-6 miles of winding paths through the woods. Frick Park SPECIALTY HIKES Sunday, July 10 MODERATE Schenley Park EASY Saturday, August 13 6:30 – 8:30 PM BREW TASTING HIKE Riverview Park Member $6, Non-Member $10 Check out this hopping neighborhood! We’ll Saturday, September 24 start with a hike to explore the trendy What better way to see the city and stay fit neighborhood of Lawrenceville, and then will than an evening hike exploring Pittsburgh’s WARRIOR TRAIL HIKE head over to Roundabout Brewing for a quirky neighborhoods? We’ll follow the Hike one of the most scenic sections of the tasting of their latest brews. The minimum sidewalks, stair cases, and side trails as we Warrior Trail in Greene County. The Warrior age to participate is 21. wind 4-6 miles through different city neighborhoods. Trail follows a 5,000 year–old path and extends Saturday, July 2 67 miles through rural landscapes from the Thursday July 7 Aspinwall Monongahela River in PA to the Ohio River in 10 AM – 1 PM WV. We’ll join Llew Williams, a representative Lawrenceville Wednesday July 20 Shadyside of the Warrior Trail Association, for a 5-7 mile Tuesday August 9 South Side hike traversing moderate terrain. This outing Member $25, Non-Member $33 is designed to showcase some of the best Tuesday August 23 Oakland hiking in Western Pennsylvania. HEINZ HISTORY HIKE Thursday September 8 Mt. Washington Sunday, September 25 Join us as we explore the H.J. Heinz Compa- Tuesday September 27 Bloomfield ny’s legacy in Pittsburgh! We’ll start at the 10 AM – 4 PM Heinz History Center at 1212 Smallman Street Warrior Trail in the Strip District where we’ll take a tour of the museum’s Heinz exhibition which explores Member $8, Non-Member $12 145 years of the company’s history. We’ll then NORTH SIDE BREW TASTING HIKE head outside and visit several historic sites We’ll start this activity with an easy through around the city. Afterward, we’ll return to the the North Side. Afterwards, we’ll head to a Heinz History Center to tour the Senator John local brewery to try their latest brews and Heinz exhibit. Museum admission is included some snacks while we learn about the I would never do this hike by in the outing fee. brewery and its history. The minimum age is 21. myself. Great leadership and overall Sunday, July 3 monitoring of group members to 11 AM – 2:30 PM Sunday, July 10 “ensure our safety and enjoyment Downtown 12 – 3 PM of trip…meticulously planned, Member $25, Non-Member $33 North Side Member $25, Non-Member $33 thank you again!

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG” 9 HEINZ FIELD HIKE Experience the gridiron up close on a 2-3 mile urban adventure along the rivers, trails and bridges of the City of Champions. Series The hike will be followed with a 1½ hour tour of the field that the six–time Super Bowl ADVANCED Champions call home. Join us on the North Country National Scenic Trail. We’ll cover about 8-12 miles on Saturday, July 9 these advanced hikes. Log some miles in the Hike 100 Challenge on the NCT, 10 AM – 1:30PM sponsored by the , on this to trail. North Shore 10 AM – 4 PM Member $15, Non-Member $20, Kids $12 North Country Trail Member $8, Non-Member $12 MT. LEBANON BREW TASTING HIKE Explore Mt. Lebanon, one of Pittsburgh’s most Saturday, August 6 • Sunday, August 28 • Sunday, September 25 • Sunday, September 11 distinctive neighborhoods. We’ll hear about the history of the area while hiking the tree–lined streets. We’ll finish at Hitchhiker Brewing, a small–batch craft brewery, for a PERK UP HIKE MILLVALE BEER TASTING WALK beer tasting and tour. Each participant goes Wake up with a moderate hike! We will Explore Millvale’s rich history and bright home with a growler of beer straight from the explore Emerald View Park and one the area’s future on this easy hike. We will wander source! The minimum age is 21. coffeehouses, Black Forge Coffee and their through Millvale’s neighborhood and commercial favorite bean. A cup of coffee is included in the district in search of the interesting, the unique Saturday, July 16 fee to send you on your way. and the offbeat. We will then try out some 2 – 5 PM tasty brews at Grist House Brewing! Each Saturday, July 30 participant will receive a fresh growler of beer Mt. Lebanon 8 – 11 AM to take home! The minimum age is 21. Member $30, Non-Member $40 Emerald View Park Saturday, August 20 Member $8, Non-Member $12 PANCAKE HIKE 11 AM – 2 PM Millvale Join us for a pancake flipping good time! HARD CIDER TASTING HIKE We’ll take a short 3-4–mile hike through Member $32, Non-Member $45 Robin Hill Park and then gather for some We’ll take a 3-mile hike through historic pancakes, juice and fresh fruit. Along the way, Lawrenceville, while learning about its we’ll learn about the history of the park, and industrial past. Afterward, we’ll stop in at ASPINWALL HIKE AND LUNCH fauna and flora that call it home. Arsenal Cider House and Wine Cellar. Owner, What is a better way to learn about a new area Bill Larkin, will be on hand to share the than taking a hike and having a bite to eat at a Sunday, July 24 intricacies of the small batch cider making local hot spot? Join us as we take a 3-4 mile 9 AM – 12 PM and lead a private tasting. Each participant hike through Aspinwall, followed by a will receive a bottle of fresh hard cider delicious vegan lunch at Randita’s Organic Highland Park straight from the source! Minimum age is 21. Vegan Café. Member $25, Non-Member $33 Sunday, August 14 Sunday, August 21 9 AM – 12 PM 10 AM – 1 PM Great mix of exercise and Lawrenceville Aspinwall historical info about the area. Member $35, Non-Member $47 Member $22, Non-Member $29 Loved Mike’s enthusiasm! WHISKEY TASTING WALK “ Join us for a brisk walk through the Strip District and surrounding areas. We’ll discuss the history of the area while connecting its ” riverfront trails, side streets and main corridors. After the walk, we’ll take a tour of Wigle Whiskey, a craft whiskey distillery in the Strip District. We’ll start with a cocktail and then go through the whiskey making process, including how whiskey production has affected Western PA’s history. The tour will end with a tasting lesson of samples of Wigle Whiskey accompanied with meats and cheeses. The minimum age is 21. Sunday, August 28 12:30 – 3:30 PM Strip District Member $35, Non-Member $47

10 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG LAWRENCEVILLE WINE TASTING HIKE CHEESEBURGER HIKE Join us as we enjoy an easy 4-mile hike while Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day! VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION learning about the history of the area. We’ll We’ll take an easy 3-5 mile hike through end the hike at Allegheny Wine Mixer to taste North Park, and then gather around the grill 6:30 – 7:30 PM a variety of high-quality wines paired with for some gourmet burgers and other snacks! Venture Outdoors Office small plates. The minimum age is 21. Saturday, September 17 Sunday, September 11 FREE! 10 AM – 1 PM Do you love the outdoors? Share your 1 – 4 PM North Park passion with others by becoming a Lawrenceville Member $18, Non-Member $24, Kids $12, volunteer with Venture Outdoors. Member $40, Non-Member $52 Family, $40 From trip leading to helping with events, we’ve got a place for you in THREE SISTERS BRIDGES WALKING TOUR BEER TASTING HIKE AND BOAT CRUISE our community. Learn more about Join us as we explore some of the many Spend an evening hiking over bridges and the organization and opportunities to bridges of Pittsburgh! We’ll meet at the Heinz along trails from the South Side to the North give back. History Center at 1212 Smallman Street in Shore. Then we’ll board a Pittsburgh Water Thursday, July 21 the Strip District and start by touring the Limo boat for views of the city from the water Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation exhibition. and taste specialty micro–brews paired with Thursday, August 4 We’ll then head outside for an easy walk to breads and cheeses. Join us for this one of a Monday, September 19 learn the history and view some of Pittsburgh’s kind experience! The minimum age is 21. most iconic bridges. Following the walk, we’ll return to the Heinz History Center to enjoy all Sunday, September 24 six floors of exhibits. Museum admission is 5:30 PM –8:30 PM included in the outing fee. Strip District Sunday, September 11 Member $40, Non-Member $52 11AM – 2:30 PM Downtown Member $25, PADDLING Non-Member $33 BEGINNER PADDLE – NORTH PARK FALL GOODIES WALK KAYAKING We’ll start with instruction on equipment and September is the start of fall and we’re techniques, and then head onto North Park excited to show off the fall foliage and the EASY Lake for practice. With experienced guides to many goodies that come with it. We’ll take an TUESDAY MORNING PADDLE lead the way, you’ll see just how easy it is to easy walk around Riverview Park and then paddle. We’ll take in the beautiful scenery of find a shelter to taste some delicious fall The tranquil lake at North Park is the perfect North Park as we kayak along the shoreline. treats. place to ease into paddling. We’ll begin with Equipment, guides and instruction are on–shore instruction and then head onto the provided. Solo are highly recommended Saturday, September 17 water for a peaceful paddle. for this outing. The minimum age is 12. 1 – 3 PM Tuesday, July 5 Thursday, July 7 Riverview Park Tuesday, July 26 Wednesday, July 20 Member $6, Tuesday, August 23 Tuesday, August 9 Non-Member $10, Kids $5 Tuesday, August 9 Thursday, August 25 Tuesday, September 6 STRIP DISTRICT WINE WALK Monday, September 12 Tuesday, September 20 We’ll take a 3 to 4–mile hike through the Strip Wednesday, September 21 District and explore the area. Afterward, we’ll 10 AM – 12 PM 6 – 8 PM stop in at R Wine Cellar to learn about the Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park wines they produce at their family winery. Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park We’ll have a private tasting paired with Member $18, Non-Member $24 Member $22, Non-Member $29 various snacks and everyone will receive an etched wine glass to take home! Minimum age is 21. Saturday, September 18 4:30 – 8:30 PM Strip District Member $35, Non-Member $47

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 11 WOMEN ON THE WATER (WOW) PADDLE Ladies take the helm! Enjoy a Sunday morning paddle along the waterways of Pittsburgh. Female guides will offer one–on–one instruction for improving your paddling technique. Every Share our passion for paddle will be geared for beginner to interme- diate paddlers who have been through a getting people outside. Beginner Paddle class. Join other “women on the water” for a fun morning of exercise. BECOME A Sunday, July 17 VOLUNTEER Sunday, September 18 Sunday, August 21 TRIP LEADER! 9 AM – 11:30 AM Check out our volunteer Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore Member $20, Non-Member $27 orientation to get started!

KAYAK & CROISSANTS: WOMEN ONLY PADDLE Start your Sunday with some exercise! Join us FOURTH OF JULY PADDLE as we paddle around one of Western PA’s Enjoy the 4th of July Fireworks from a front BEGINNER PADDLE – scenic waterways. Afterward, we’ll have a row seat. Starting at 7 PM we will take a leisurely paddle upstream and as the sun sets We’ll start with instruction on equipment and breakfast of croissants from a local bakery we will float back down toward the Point to techniques, and then head onto Lake Arthur and coffee on the shoreline. Bring along your take our place in the front row for the best for practice. With experienced guides to lead mother, daughter, sister or best friend for this fireworks display in Pittsburgh! the way, you’ll see just how easy it is to enjoyable morning paddle. Beginner paddle instruction included. paddle. We’ll take in the beautiful scenery of Monday, July 4 Moraine State Park as we kayak along the Sunday, August 7 shoreline. Equipment, guides and instruction 7 – 10:30 PM are provided. Only solo kayaks are available 9 AM – 12:30 PM Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore for this outing. The minimum age is 12. Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park Member $50, Non-Member $75 Saturday, July 9 Member $25, Non-Member $33 Sunday, July 24 ECO–TOUR PADDLE Saturday, August 6 Join us for an eco–tour of Lake Arthur. We’ll MODERATE learn the social and natural history of Moraine Saturday, August 20 State Park as we paddle our kayaks along the Saturday, September 3 Previous paddling experience required for these shoreline in search of wildlife. Only solo outings. The minimum age is 12 unless kayaks are available for this outing. Saturday, September 10 otherwise noted. Saturday, July 16 Sunday, September 25 Sunday, August 28 10 AM –12 PM KAYAKS AND COFFEE MORNING PADDLE Sunday, September 11 Moraine State Park Kick start your day with a morning paddle! 8:30 – 11 AM Member $22, Non-Member $29 We’ll take a moderately paced paddle on Lake Arthur, followed by a cup of coffee and some Moraine State Park light refreshments. Only solo kayaks are BEGINNER PADDLE – NORTH SHORE available for this outing. Member $22, Non-Member $29 We’ll start with instruction and practice, and then head onto the Allegheny River to see just Sunday, July 3 DESTINATION KAYAKING how easy it is to paddle. Bedazzled by the Sunday, August 21 We’re throwing our kayaks on the trailer and gorgeous Pittsburgh skyline, you won’t even Sunday, September 4 taking them on the road. Join us for a paddle realize that you’re suddenly paddling like a outside of the ‘burgh. Guides and all paddling pro! Equipment, guides and instruction are 8:30 – 11 AM equipment included in fee. Previous kayaking provided. Solo kayaks are highly recommended Moraine State Park experience required. Only solo kayaks are for this outing. The minimum age is 12. available for these outings. Member $20, Non-Member $27 Monday, July 11 Green Lick Reservoir Monday, July 25 Sunday, July 17 Monday, August 1 Venture Outdoors did an 10 AM – 1:30 PM Tuesday, August 16 extraordinary job of delivering a Shenango River Monday, August 29 great outdoor experience where I Sunday, August 14 Wednesday, September 7 “did not have to sweat any details. Beaver River Monday, September 19 The trip leader’s extraordinary Monday, September 26 Saturday, September 24 6 – 8:30 PM performance also provided a 10 AM – 4 PM Shenango River Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore strong sense of safety and care Member $40, Watchers Member $22, Non-Member $29 for all persons. Non-Member $65 12 ” VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG FIREWORKS PADDLE We will take a leisurely paddle up the Allegheny River and float back down towards PNC Park in time for the fireworks show. Once the ball game is over, it is time to sit back, relax and marvel at the fireworks. Feel all the BOOMS and POPS vibrating the water from your front row seat. End time may run later if the baseball game goes into extra innings. Minimum age 8 years old with parent in tandem. Thursday, July 21 Saturday, August 20 Thursday, September 8 7:30 – 10 PM Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore Member $40, Non-Member $55

SUNSET OVER PITTSBURGH PADDLE Take in the sunset from the water! We’ll take a relaxing paddle along the Allegheny River and take in the sights and sounds of the city as the sun sets. Friday, July 22 LAKE ARTHUR REGATTA FIREWORKS PADDLE Tuesday, August 16 We will take a leisurely paddle along the Wednesday 6:30 – 8:30 PM shoreline of Lake Arthur enjoying the lake at Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore dusk. Then we’ll get into position to marvel at the Regatta firework display. You will feel all Wake Up Paddles Member $25, Non-Member $33 the BOOMS and POPS vibrating the water from your front row seat. Paddling experience MODERATE PITTSBURGH SKYLINE PADDLE is necessary Only solo kayaks are available for this outing. We’ll hit the water for an evening paddle and 6:15 – 7:30 AM check out the many sights and sounds Saturday, August 6 Pittsburgh has to offer. Following the paddle, Wednesdays until October 7:30 – 10 PM we gather on shore for some snacks and light Member $12, Non-Member $18 refreshments. Moraine State Park Friday, July 29 Member $40, Non-Member $55 Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore 7 – 9 PM Wednesday Wake Up Paddles are a great Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore way to start your day. This hour-long, moderately-paced paddle allows participants Member $25, Non-Member $33 Great location, camaraderie and to enjoy the sunrise over the city every week. Each paddle is dependent upon river SUMMER SALADS PADDLE good instruction helped me to and weather conditions. There is nothing like a late morning paddle improve my paddling. followed by the fresh taste of summer salads. “ We’ve got both planned for you in this amazing trip. We will start with a paddle along the shoreline of Lake Arthur, keeping an eye out for wildlife. Then, we’ll enjoy a ” picnic on the shore with different greens topped with nuts, berries, veggies, and tasty dressings. Only solo kayaks are available for this outing. Sunday, July 31 Come explore the region’s waterways with us. 10 AM – 1 PM Moraine State Park KAYAKPITTSBURGH.ORG Member $25, Non-Member $33 Both locations are open through the Fall. Check our website or call for more information.

KAYAK PITTSBURGH – NORTH PARK – 412.559.3697 KAYAK PITTSBURGH – NORTH SHORE – 412.969.9090

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 13 SYCAMORE ISLAND PADDLE Conserved by , Sycamore Island hosts a unique floodplain hardwood forest – among the rarest plant community types globally. Naturalists from Allegheny Land Trust will talk about the island’s social and environmental history while our group explores the island by kayak and foot. Pack a lunch and join us as we learn about this unique island on the Allegheny River. Previous kayaking experience required. Only solo kayaks are available for this outing. Saturday, September 17 10 AM – 2 PM Blawnox Member $40, Non-Member $65

STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING The minimum age is 13 for all SUP outings.

PERSEIDS PADDLE HARVEST MOON PADDLE EASY The Perseid meteor shower, one of the Join us as we celebrate the Harvest Moon and largest meteor showers of the year, comes the start of the fall season with an evening around every August. This year, it will peak on paddle on the Allegheny River. We will head BEGINNER STAND UP August 13th so you can bet we’ll be out there upstream and around Washington’s Landing, What’s SUP? Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) witnessing the beauty of it! Come join us at learning about the river and sites along the is one of the fastest growing watersports in Moraine State Park to enjoy this spectacular shore. We will then float back downstream as the world. We’ll begin with a short land–based light show! Paddling experience is necessary. we enjoy the city’s skyline as it shimmers on instruction, and then have you gliding on the Only solo kayaks are available for this outing. the dark water, and then look for the harvest water in no time! This great full–body workout moon as it peeks from behind the downtown is perfect for all ages and levels of ability. Friday, August 12 high–rises. Minimal physical conditioning is necessary 7:30 – 10 PM and participants should be comfortable in and Friday, September 16 on the water. Moraine State Park 7 – 9:30 PM Member $30, Non-Member $40 Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore Saturday, July 2 FULL MOON FLOAT Member $25, Non-Member $33 Saturday, July 23 Join us for a lovely evening paddle around Saturday, August 20 North Park Lake. We will meander along the shoreline while learning about the area and Saturday, August 27 sites along its shore. Then we’ll paddle to the Saturday, September 17 middle of the lake and await the full moon as 9 – 10:15 AM it peaks in the dark night sky, reflecting on the Thursday Morning tranquil water. Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park Thursday, August 18 Wake Up SUP Tuesday, July 12 7:30 – 9:30 PM MODERATE Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park Tuesday, July 19 Tuesday, July 26 Member $25, Non-Member $33 6:15 – 7:30 AM Tuesday, August 2 STARGAZING PADDLE Thursdays through October Thursday, August 11 A great way to view the stars while at North Member $20, Non-Member $27 Tuesday, August 23 Park is during a new moon in a kayak on the lake. The sun will go down and we’ll be able to Kayak Pittsburgh - North Park Thursday, September 1 enjoy the celestial bodies above with the Thursday, September 8 beautiful park skyline in the background. Thursday Morning Wake-Up SUP is a great Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park Friday, August 5 way to start your day. This hour-long, moderately-paced paddle allows participants 7 – 8:15 PM Thursday, September 1 to enjoy the sunrise over the North Park Member $20, Non-Member $27 7:30 – 10 PM lake every week. Each paddle is dependent on weather conditions. Some previous SUP Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park experience is recommended. Member $25, Non-Member $33 14 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG WOMEN ONLY BEGINNER SUP SUP YOGA Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the Join us for a yoga class on the water! This CANOEING fastest growing watersports in the world and outing will start with an easy introduction to this class is an intro just for women! We’ll SUP Yoga and then will move onto the water begin with a short land–based instruction, and as trip leaders guide you through a series of EASY then head out on the water for some practice! poses and other yoga principles. Some basic This great full–body workout is perfect for all yoga and SUP skills are recommended. TANDEM SKILLS ages and levels of ability. Minimal physical Minimum age is 13. Learn the simplicity and splendor of gliding conditioning is necessary and participants Saturday, July 9 through a serene lake in a tandem canoe. should be comfortable in and on the water. Instructors John and Kate Powell will share Saturday, July 23 Monday, July 18 their 30+ years of knowledge on paddling Saturday, August 6 techniques. Each class starts with on-land Monday, September 19 instruction and then getting onto the water to Sunday, August 14 Monday, August 22 practice. Paddlers are welcome to bring their Saturday, August 20 own boats and launch from an alternative 7 – 8:15 PM launch point near Kayak Pittsburgh; however, Saturday, August 27 Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park are included in the outing fee. Saturday, September 24 Member $20, Non-Member $27 Thursday, July 28 9 – 10:15 AM Thursday, August 25 Thursday, September 29 MODERATE Tuesday, July 5 Thursday, July 14 6 – 8 PM Previous SUP experience required for these Thursday, July 28 Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park outings. Tuesday, August 16 Member $15, Non-Member $20 SUP SUNSET PADDLE Tuesday, September 6 Take in the sunset from the water! We’ll take Tuesday, September 13 a relaxing paddle around North Park Lake and Tuesday, September 20 head back just in time to see the sunset over the Boathouse. 7 – 8:15 PM Friday, July 1 Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park Sunday, July 17 Member $20, Non-Member $27 Thursday, August 4 INTERMEDIATE SUP YOGA Friday, August 19 Join us for an advanced yoga class on the Thursday, September 15 water! This outing will start with introduction and then will move onto the water as trip Friday, September 23 leaders guide you through a series of poses 7:45 – 9 PM and other yoga principles. Basic yoga and SUP Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park skills are recommended. Minimum age is 13. Member $20, Non-Member $27 Saturday, September 24 7 – 8:15 AM SUP ECO–TOUR Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park Join us for an eco–tour of North Park Lake. As Member $25, Non-Member $33 we paddle along the shoreline, we’ll share the fun facts of the ecosystem’s plants and wildlife. Sunday, July 10 Sunday, July 24 9 – 10:15 AM Monday, August 15 Interested in creating a Venture Outdoors Kayak Pittsburgh – North Park experience for your school, company, Member $20, Non-Member $27 or group of friends? Check out a Venture Outdoors Custom Outing! Loved, loved, loved this activity. SUP is great. They could get Outings can be created for all ages and ability levels. anyone up on the board and “paddling. A big thanks to everyone Go to ventureoutdoors.org for more information who made this outing possible. about our offerings and to book an outing today! VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG ” VENTURE15 OUTDOORS WORKSHOPS

RELAXED INTRO TO FLAT-WATER KAYAKING Looking to get into kayaking? Kayaked but have questions? Join us for this introductory workshop! We’ll cover where to go, what to bring, what to wear and places to go! Monday, July 11 6:30 – 8 PM Venture Outdoors Office FREE!

STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING WORKSHOP Come learn about one of the fastest growing watersports in the world. We’ll include information on where to go, how to dress and the history of this new sport. Monday, August 1 6:30 – 8 PM Venture Outdoors Office FREE! CAVING EXPLORATION PICK A PARK AND GO: AN INTRODUCTION TO ROCK CLIMBING Come spelunk with us! Experience a subter- ranean adventure full of discovery. An DAY HIKING experienced Laurel Caverns guide will lead Looking to get into hiking? Hiked but have AND CAVING our group through the underworld to places questions? Looking for tips and tricks? Join that most tour groups don’t get to see. Bring us for this introductory workshop! We’ll EASY your old clothes because to see this world, cover where to go, what to bring, what to you have to get dirty! This adventure involves wear and the ways to pick the best spot to ROCK CLIMBING uneven terrain and requires a moderate level spend the day. of fitness as some crawling and scrambling Imagine the feeling of using your own two hands around boulders is necessary. Minimum age Thursday, September 8 and feet to pull yourself up the side of a cliff. is 12. 6:30 – 8 PM Rock climbing is a popular outdoor sport great for strength and confidence building. Saturday, August 27 Venture Outdoors Office Experienced guides will teach you about FREE! equipment, safety, tying knots, belay and some 9 AM – 1 PM climbing techniques. After the introduction, Laurel Caverns we’ll practice a few different climbs. This Member $30, Non-Member $40, Kids $25 class is perfect for beginners. All gear is included in the fee. Sunday, July 17 My goals for the class were different than most as I’ve been an Saturday, August 20 active climber for some time. I wanted to focus on anchors Sunday, September 18 and safety rather than the actual climbing. I was definitely able 9 AM – 4 PM to do so with the team. Dunbar, PA “ Member $50, Non-Member $67, Kids $40 Book our climbing wall for your next ” event! Our 24-foot climbing wall is Not only gained a wealth of great for community celebrations, information but was able to corporate events, and school functions! execute what I learned. Five Check out ventureoutdoors.org for “stars! Excellent instructor/ more information and to book an instruction. event today!

16 ” VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG JULY 2016 VENTURE OUTDOORS indicates multi–day outing

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 SUP Sunset Paddle Brew Tasting Hike Saturday Hike in the Woods 3 Rivers – 3 Ways Beginner Stand Up Paddleboarding

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Kayaks and Coffee Family Fishing Derby SUP Yoga Tyke Hike – Neighborhood Hike – Star Party Hike Heinz Field Hike Morning Paddle Fourth of July Paddle Tuesday Morning Riverview Park Aspinwall LHHT Quest #5 Heinz Field Hike Paddle TriAnglers Beginner Paddle – Beginner Paddle – Wednesday Morning North Park Moraine State Park Wake Up Paddle Thursday Morning SUP Yoga Wake-Up SUP

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 High-Energy Morning Beginner Paddle – July Happy Hour Ride TriAnglers Thursday Morning Homestead History Riverfront Trail Ride Hike North Shore Tyke Hike – Boyce- Wednesday Morning Wake-Up SUP Hike Two Day Bike Warm Two Day Bike Warm Intro to Flat-Water Mayview Park Wake Up Paddle SUP Yoga Water Weekend Water Weekend Kayaking Beginner Stand-Up Mt. Lebanon Brew Roaring Run Doggie Paddleboarding Tasting Hike Trek Eco-Tour Paddle SUP Eco-Tour North Side Brew Tasting Hike

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Butterfly Walk Women Only Beginner Full Moon Float – Tyke Hike – Mellon Park Thursday Morning Bat Walk Saturday Bike & Lunch Summer Tree ID Walk SUP Members Only Neighborhood Hike – Wake-Up SUP Sunset Over Pittsburgh LHHT Quest #6 Rock Climbing Beginner Stand-Up Shadyside North Park Family Paddle SUP Yoga Paddleboarding Beginner Paddle SUP Sunset Paddle Beginner Paddle – Beginner Stand-Up North Park Volunteer Orientation WOW Paddle Paddleboarding TriAnglers Fireworks Paddle Destination Kayaking – Green Lick Reservoir Wednesday Morning Wake Up Paddle

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Pancake Hike Beginner Paddle – Tyke Hike – Frick Park Yough River Thursday Morning Pittsburgh Skyline LHHT Quest #7 Waterfall Hike North Shore Tuesday Morning Smallmouth Bass Wake-Up SUP Paddle Montour Woods Hike Beginner Paddle – Paddle TriAnglers SUP Yoga Perk Up Hike Moraine State Park Beginner Stand-Up Wednesday Morning Tandem Canoe Skills SUP Eco-Tour Paddleboarding Wake Up Paddle 31 Sunday Ride on Trail Blue Hole Doggie Trek Summer Salads Paddle

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 17 AUGUST 2016 VENTURE OUTDOORS indicates multi–day outing SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 5 6 Beginner Paddle – Beginner Stand Up Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning Stargazing Paddle Fly Fishing for Bass & North Shore Paddleboarding Wake Up Paddle Wake Up SUP Panfish Stand Up Tyke Hike – Allegheny Volunteer Orientation Cook Forest Historic Hike Paddleboarding Commons SUP Sunset Paddle North Country Trail Workshop TriAnglers Series Beginner Paddle – Moraine State Park Lake Arthur Regatta Fireworks Paddle SUP Yoga 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Incline History Hike Tyke Hike – Hartwood Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning Family Night Hike Urban Bike Tour – Kayak & Croissants: Acres Wake Up Paddle Wake Up SUP Perseids Paddle Members Only Women Only Paddle Neighborhood Hike – Mid-Week Adventure Beginner Stand-Up High-Energy Morning South Side Hike Paddleboarding Hike Beginner Paddle – TriAnglers Meteor Shower Hike North Park Waterfall Hike Tuesday Morning Paddle

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Hard Cider Tasting SUP Eco-Tour Beginner Paddle – Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning SUP Sunset Paddle Bluegrass Festival Hike Hike North Shore Wake Up Paddle Wake Up SUP Millvale Beer Taste Walk Destination Kayaking Sunset Over Pittsburgh Mid-Week Adventure Full Moon Float Beginner Stand Up SUP Yoga Paddle Paddle Paddleboarding Blue Hole Doggie Trek SUP Yoga Night Fishing for Rock Climbing Brown Trout Beginner Paddle – TriAnglers Moraine State Park Fireworks Paddle SUP Yoga Coal and Coke Ride 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Sunday Ride on the Women Only Beginner Neighborhood Hike – Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning Hiking with the Stars Art Bike & Lunch Trail SUP Oakland Wake Up Paddle Wake Up SUP Caving Exploration North Shore Family Tuesday Morning Mid-Week Adventure Beginner Paddle – SUP Yoga Beginner Paddle Paddle Bike Ride North Park Beginner Stand Up Aspinwall Hike & Beginner Stand Up TriAnglers Tandem Canoe Skills Paddleboarding Lunch Paddleboarding Saturday Hike in the Wingfield Pines Walk Woods Kayaks and Coffee Morning Paddle WOW Paddle 28 29 30 31 North Country Trail Beginner Paddle – Wednesday Morning Series North Shore Wake Up Paddle Roaring Run Doggie TriAnglers Trek Whiskey Tasting Walk Eco-Tour Paddle Lewis and Clark Paddle

18 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG SEPTEMBER 2016 VENTURE OUTDOORS indicates multi–day outing SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 Thursday Morning Ice Cream Geocaching Wake Up SUP Saturday Hike in the Stargazing Paddle Woods Beginner Stand Up Beginner Paddle – Paddleboarding Moraine State Park

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Roaring Run Doggie SUP Yoga Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning Bike Fishing on the Trek Tuesday Morning Wake Up Paddle Wake Up SUP Yough Kayaks and Coffee Paddle TriAnglers Neighborhood Hike – Beginner Paddle – Morning Paddle Beginner Paddle – Mt. Washington Moraine State Park North Shore Fireworks Paddle Beginner Stand Up Paddleboarding Pick a Park and Go: An Introduction to Day Hiking 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Grand Hike for Kids Outdoor Skills: SUP Yoga Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning Harvest Moon Paddle North Shore Trail Ride Grandparents LNT Wake Up Paddle Wake Up SUP Cheeseburger Hike Lawrenceville Wine Warrior Trail Hike TriAnglers Downtown Walkabout Fall Goodies Walk Tasting Hike Beginner Paddle – SUP Sunset Paddle Sycamore Island North Country Trail North Park Paddle Series Beginner Stand Up Eco-Tour Paddle Paddleboarding Three Sisters Bridges Walking Tour

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Sunday Ride on the Volunteer Orientation SUP Yoga Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning SUP Sunset Paddle Backpacking LHHT Trail Beginner Paddle – Tuesday Morning Wake Up Paddle Wake-Up SUP Saturday Bike & Lunch Kids Tree ID Hike North Shore Paddle Beginner Paddle – Autumn Equinox Night Dark Sky Night Hike Rock Climbing Women Only Beginner North Park Hike High-Energy Morning Hike WOW Paddle SUP TriAnglers Destination Kayaking – Strip District Wine Beaver River Walk Intermediate SUP Yoga Beer Tasting Hike & Boat Cruise SUP Yoga 25 26 27 28 29 30 Backpacking LHHT Beginner Paddle – Neighborhood Hike – Wednesday Morning Thursday Morning Sunset Over Pittsburgh Kids Bird ID Hike North Shore Bloomfield Wake Up Paddle Wake Up SUP Paddle – Members Only North Country Trail TriAnglers Tandem Canoe Skills Series Beginner Paddle – Moraine State Park Warrior Trail Hike

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 19 NON–PROFIT US POSTAGE VENTURE OUTDOORS PAID PERMIT NO. 593 33 Terminal Way, Suite 537A PITTSBURGH, PA Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Thank You to our Sponsors

Venture Outdoors would like to thank the following participants and volunteers who generously provided photographs for this issue of Trailhead. Nanci Goldberg

An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association Karen Hanley Pat Hinson Kate Keech Suni Lynn Lee Mary Lynn Marsico Chelsea Szost Bugieslski Neva Szost