September – December 2015 Calendar of Events

VENTURE OUTDOORS trailhead Connecting Everyone with the Outdoors.

Watch the leaves fall with a great view from the water. Kayak Pittsburgh is open through October.

Explore the outdoors with the whole family! Decorate pumpkins. Make bird feeders. Find candy canes. Our Family Outings have something for everyone!

Be a tourist in your own backyard! Join an urban hike that highlights the art, archaeology, or architecture of Pittsburgh. 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 Pennsylvania. We provide a variety of activities that inspire an active lifestyle, promote the Erik Agostoni, Secretary region’s unique natural amenities, highlight its excellent quality of life, and foster a greater Todd Owens, Immediate 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 healthy lifestyles throughout Western Staff Venture Outdoors also runs Kayak Pennsylvania Pittsburgh and operates a 24’ climbing Joey-Linn Ulrich, Executive Director wall to bring fun to your next festival, community day, or corporate event. PROGRAM DEPARTMENT Lora Woodward, Director And join us each spring for two of our most Liz Fager, Program Manager popular events – the Banff Mountain Film Jim Smith, Equipment and Facilities Manager Festival and the Venture Outdoors Festival Lora Hutelmyer, Youth Program Coordinator in Point State Park. Jake Very, Program Administrator

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

2 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG Levels of Difficulty Table of Contents Membership p. 2 Hiking p. 5 Leadership p. 13 This terminology is general. Please refer to program description for specifics. The Levels of Difficulty p. 3 Backpacking p. 10 Paddling p. 13 activity information is accurate at the How to Sign Up p. 3 Family p. 10 Rock Climbing p. 15 time of printing. Occasionally, an activity’s Biking p. 4 Specialty p. 11 Winter p. 15 information is altered before its start Fishing p. 5 date. You will receive the most recent information when you register. RELAXED • Short distances at a slow pace • Generally flat terrain, well defined trails How to Sign Up • No prior activity experience is necessary • Perfect start for beginners ONLINE If at any point in the process you have a question • Not too physically challenging Visit ventureoutdoors.org. or would like assistance, please call 412.255.0564, x0 or email [email protected]. EASY Members • Short distances at a slow pace Registrations are confirmed within 1–2 business days. • Relatively flat terrain, well defined trails, • Click Sign In at the top right corner of the homepage, enter your email address and may involve some hills password, then navigate to Activities Calendar MORE INFORMATION • No prior activity experience is necessary and select your outing. • Perfect start for beginners We will provide you with an information sheet that • Not too physically challenging includes meeting time and location, directions, Non-Members and a list of what to wear and bring. Participants MODERATE • Click Join Today at the top right corner of the provide their own transportation and food unless • Varying distances at a steady pace homepage to become a Member and start otherwise noted. • Varying terrain, fairly established trails saving on outings OR navigate to Activities • Some prior experience in the activity is Calendar and select your outing. required ACCOMMODATIONS Next Steps • Physically challenging, only for those in 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@ to the next page. That’s where you select who ventureoutdoors.org. ADVANCED is attending. • Fast-paced over a short distance or • Check the boxes for all family members you steady-paced over a long distance wish to register. CANCELLATION POLICY • Varying terrain, may include off-trail Refunds are processed for cancellations sections, rough spots, unexpected – If you are registering someone who is made at least three business days (Monday – NOT a Member, enter information in the obstacles Friday) in advance. Simply email registration@ Other Participants fields. Then click Add ventureoutdoors.org or call 412.255.0564. • Prior experience in the activity is required Participant. Cancellations cannot be made on our website. • Physically challenging, only for those in good physical condition • Once all participants have been added, check I agree to VO terms and click Next. Cancellations with insufficient notice, no-shows, STRENUOUS and late arrivals who miss the group’s departure • Select Save and Continue Shopping to go will not receive a refund or trip credit. • Fast-paced over a short distance or back to the Activities Calendar and add more fast-paced over a long distance outings. Then repeat the steps. When ready to Refunds are issued in the form of original payment • Difficult terrain, will include off-trail check out, add discount code or gift unless otherwise requested. Paid reservations sections, rough spots and unexpected certificate numbers if applicable, then click are transferable to other participants. However, obstacles 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 • Ready to complete your transaction? Click condition. Most physically challenging 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 NORTH SIDE BIKE TOUR: HISTORY & ARCHITECTURE MODERATE BIKING Biking through the North Side we will discover some hidden treasures beyond the river and GHOST TOWN TRAIL RIDE learn what the former Allegheny City used to Nothing scary about this trail. Its name is EASY be. We will ride deep into the neighborhood derived from the numerous ghost towns along and stop at historic sites and fascinating RIVERFRONT TRAIL RIDE the way that were abandoned after the decline pieces of old and new architecture of various of the local coal mining industry. This 38 mile Pittsburgh has bike trails along all three of its styles. Bike rentals are available through round trip boasts both historic sites and rivers! Our knowledgeable guides will show Venture Outdoors for $8. Reservations should natural features including a mid-19th century you how to connect the trails smoothly on this be made by calling 412.255.0564, x0 after blast iron furnace. The trail also passes along 12-15 mile ride. Expect a great tour of the city registering for the program. large areas of State Game Lands giving riders and its riverfronts with plenty of interesting opportunities to see deer, bear, beaver and stops along the way. Prices do not include Date: Saturday, October 10 other woodland creatures. We will meet in bike rentals. Bike rentals are available Time: 11 AM – 2 PM Dilltown and ride to Ebensburg. Pack your through Venture Outdoors for $8. Reservations Location: North Side lunch or walk your bike to one of the town’s for rentals should be made by calling the Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 varied restaurants. The trail surface is finely office, 412.255.0564, ext. 0 after registering packed limestone and relatively flat for the for the outing. TRAIN AND TRAIL RIDE first half with a long but gradual steep incline Dates and Times: Sunday, September 13, 1 – 4 PM All aboard! We’ll start by putting our bikes on (up to 3%) making for a moderate ride. Bike and Saturday, October 17, 9 AM – 12 PM the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad and rentals are not available. Location: Three Rivers Heritage Trail travel with them from Cumberland to Date: Saturday, September 19 Cost: Member $10, Non-Member $15 Frostburg. Sit back and relax as we chug Time: 10 AM – 4 PM uphill 16 miles enjoying one of the best scenic Location: Ghost Town Trail BRIDGES IN THE ‘BURGH TOUR: DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH passageways in the Laurel Highlands. Then we’ll hop on our bikes and coast back to Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 Lovin’ the beautiful bridges of Pittsburgh, but Cumberland along the Great Allegheny don’t really know anything about them? Then Passage trail. This easy-paced outing is great this could be a lot fun for you! You’ll learn all ALLEGHENY RIVER TRAIL RIDE for families and anyone looking to take in the about the Pittsburgh bridges – which one is Southwestern PA has many bike trails to autumn scenery. Bike rental is available in the oldest, what bridge burnt down and had to explore. We will pedal a total of 30 miles out Cumberland. Minimum age 12. be rebuilt twice, who are they actually named and back along the Allegheny River Trail that after, and plenty more fascinating details. Date: Sunday, October 11 connects Franklin to Emlenton. The flat, Bike rentals are available through Venture Time: 10:45 AM – 3:30 PM smooth, asphalt surface trail follows the Allegheny River through farmland and woods. Outdoors for $8. Reservations should be Location: Great Allegheny Passage made by calling 412.255.0564, x0 after Headlamps are required as we will pedal registering for the program. Cost: Member $55, Non-Member $70 through two tunnels! We’ll start and end in Emlenton where Cathy Kentzel, owner of the Date: Wednesday, September 16 DRAVO CEMETERY RIDE ON THE GAP Barnard will share historical information on Time: 4 – 7 PM Ride from Little Boston to West Newton and the area. Pack a lunch to be eaten trailside. Location: Downtown Pittsburgh back as we travel 30 miles along the Great Bike rentals are not included in the fee but are Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 Allegheny Passage. We’ll stop at Dead Man’s available for rent in Emlenton. Hollow, the site of a thriving industrial area Date: Sunday, September 27 FALL FOLIAGE RIDE ON THE GAP 100 years ago that contains only a few Time: 10 AM – 4 PM remaining signs of its past industry, and the The Great Allegheny Passage along the Location: Allegheny River Trail isolated Old Dravo Cemetery with gravestones Youghiogheny River abounds in color during that date back to 1812. In West Newton, we’ll Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 this time of year. What better way to experience enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries. it than with an easy 22 mile round-trip ride (Lunch is not included in the outing fee.) Time from Ohiopyle to Confluence. We will meet at BIG SAVAGE TUNNEL RIDE will be allotted to wander the town before the train station/visitors center in Ohiopyle Arguably the most scenic section of the Great pedaling back. Bike rentals are not available. and ride along the Great Allegheny Passage to Allegheny Passage! This 32 mile round trip Confluence. Along the way we will view river Date: Saturday, October 31 includes bridges, viaducts and tunnels rafters and fly fishermen enjoying the varied Time: 10 AM – 4 PM including the 3,294 foot long Big Savage Tunnel. Our ride begins at the historic Western recreational opportunities that the Youghiogheny Location: Great Allegheny Passage River has to offer. Lunch will be on your own Maryland Railway Station in Meyersdale from in Confluence. Before our break, we will travel Cost: FREE – Members Only which we will travel across the Eastern to the top of the Youghiogheny Dam and ride Continental Divide and Mason-Dixon Line on our the length of it while we take in a fantastic ride to Frostburg, MD. Lunch will be on your view of the mountain scenery. This trail own in Frostburg. While there, we might be consists of a packed limestone surface and is able to view a steam locomotive pull into the relatively flat with the only exception being a station. The trip will end upon our return to short uphill section should you want to visit Meyersdale after a slightly uphill incline. Time the dam. You may opt out of this excursion permitting, those interested can travel a couple and extend your lunch time instead. Bike of extra miles to ride across the 1,908 foot long rentals are available in Ohiopyle at several Salisbury Viaduct. Bike rentals are not available. vendors. It is recommended that you call in Date: Sunday, October 25 advance to reserve a bicycle. Time: 10 AM – 3 PM Date: Saturday, October 3 Location: Great Allegheny Passage Time: 10 AM – 2 PM Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 Location: Great Allegheny Passage Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18

4 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG FLY FISHING FOR WILD BROWN TROUT SUMMER TREE ID WALK ADVANCED Enjoy the great insect hatches this fertile stream Ever wonder how to identify the trees in the BUTLER FREEPORT TRAIL RIDE provides – the fish certainly do. We will fish parks and forests around you? It’s easier than Southwestern PA has many bike trails to both meadow sections and scenic gorges on you think. You will learn basic tree identification explore. We will pedal a total of 40 miles out this day trip to Bedford County. Our instructors skills and explore the forested landscape. and back along the Butler-Freeport Trail. The will assist you with fly selection and presentation Date: Sunday, September 20 techniques. We’ll have lunch stream-side and crushed limestone trail follows streams, Time: 9 – 11:30 AM farmland, and woods. We’ll stop for lunch in there will be plenty of time to enjoy the beauty Butler. (Lunch not included in the outing fee.) of Tussey Mountain in the Fall. Pennsylvania Location: Frick Park Bike rentals are not available. Fishing License requirements apply. Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5 Date: Sunday, September 20 Date: Saturday, October 17 AUTUMN EQUINOX NIGHT HIKE Time: 10 AM – 3 PM Time: 9 AM – 5 PM Fall is here and with it comes the cool Location: Butler Freeport Trail Location: Yellow Creek, Bedford County Cost: Member $65, Non-Member $86 nights! We’re going to celebrate the sun’s Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 position over the equator with a night hike around Hartwood Acres. We will wind along the wooded trails for 3-4 miles and view the star-studded sky while enjoying the first autumn HIKING evening of the year. This outing is dog friendly! EASY Date: Wednesday, September 23 Time: 6:30 – 9 PM WILDFLOWER WALK Location: Hartwood Acres Join local ecologist Henry Schumacher for an Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 exploratory walk of Boyce-Mayview Park’s early fall wildflowers. We will take in the fleeting beauty of this vibrant display and ST. CLAIR CEMETERY WALK discuss the ecology of wildflowers and their Join us for an entertaining afternoon in role in the ecosystem. Greensburg’s largest and most beautiful Date: Saturday, September 12 burial grounds. As we stroll through this cemetery, we will learn the history that FISHING Time: 9 – 11 AM surrounds this resting place and of the RELAXED Location: Boyce Mayview Park interesting people who are buried there. Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Date: Saturday, September 26 TRIANGLERS Time: 1 – 4 PM Everyone is welcome to come fishing with this DOGGIE FIRST AID HIKE Location: Hempfield Township weekly lunchtime fishing group, the TriAnglers. This class, taught by local veterinarians, will Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12, Kids $6 Come help us celebrate Pittsburgh’s clean discuss common first aid problems that a dog rivers and great fishing opportunities right could experience while on a hike during the here in downtown Pittsburgh. VO Trip Leaders changing seasons and the remedies and FALL PHOTOGRAPHY WALK will be on hand to help the novice and expert recommended supplies for treatment. After Learn the basic elements of photography – alike learn more about this great destination the hour-long class, we’ll hit the trails of time, light, distance, and composition and how and possibly land a trophy catch. Pennsylvania North Park for a 3-4 mile hike. to apply them to capture your outdoor Fishing License requirements apply. Registra- Date: Sunday, September 13 adventure. Gain a better understanding of tion is strongly encouraged, but walk-ups are your camera’s controls – what they do and also welcome. Bait generously provided by Time: 9 AM – 12 PM how they can be used to produce pleasing Island Firearms, Inc. Location: North Park shots. We’ll hike along beautiful Lake Arthur Date: Wednesdays, September 2 Cost: FREE – Members Only in Moraine State Park and take advantage of – September 30 the lake scenery, birds, trees, and boats to get some great nature shots as you practice. Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM WINGFIELD PINES ECO-WALK Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore Join us for an ecological walk along Date: Sunday, September 27 Cost: FREE Chartiers Creek in Upper Saint Clair Township. Time: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM Naturalists from the Allegheny Land Trust will Location: Moraine State Park tell us about Wingfield Pines, an 80-acre tract Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 MODERATE of land along the Chartiers floodplain. We’ll learn about historical impacts to the environ- AN INTRODUCTION TO SPEY CASTING ment from coal mining and the positive NORTH SIDE MURAL WALK Discover the art of Spey casting as we learn impacts that people are having on this See the city from an artist’s eye as we tour the use of singe and two-handed fly rods. landscape today. Highlights include the Pittsburgh’s beautiful North Side on an easy Dale and Cyndi Kotowski, of Chestnut Ridge abandoned mine drainage system, mitigation walk that connects the murals and art Trout Unlimited, will examine these casts and wetlands, and the wildlife that all call this site projects that make this neighborhood unique. teach their application in trout, bass and home. We’ll join a representative from PghMurals on steelhead fishing. We will take a look at flies, Date: Saturday, September 19 this 2-3 mile walk as we learn of the artists lines, leaders, gear and tactics to utilize Spey and the stories behind their work. casts in your everyday fishing. Pennsylvania Time: 10 AM – 12:30 PM Fishing License requirements apply. Fly Location: Wingfield Pines Date: Sunday, September 27 fishing experience is necessary Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12, Kids $6 Time: 2 – 5 PM Date: Saturday, September 26 Location: North Side Time: 9 AM – 5 PM Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Location: Ohiopyle State Park Cost: Member $65, Non-Member $86 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 5 INCLINE HISTORY HIKE WALK THROUGH PREHISTORY ALLEGHENY CEMETERY WALK Only two inclines remain; but Pittsburgh had Travel through time on a 2-mile walk Allegheny Cemetery is the oldest institution of many more. On this leisurely 4-mile South Side through the woods and fields surrounding its kind west of the Allegheny Mountains, and hike through an area that once had ten inclines; Meadowcroft Rockshelter, the oldest site of one of the oldest incorporated cemeteries in we will ride the Mon Incline and explore the human habitation in North America. Along the the United States. As we stroll through these remains of four others. Bring your camera way, we’ll learn about the flora and fauna of peaceful grounds, we will hear the history of and incline fare! the area as it relates to the survival techniques the cemetery and will learn about a few of the Date: Saturday, October 3 of prehistoric people. We will pass a local famous people who call it home. beaver dam and briefly visit a re-created 16th Date: Saturday, October 31 Time: 9 – 12 PM century Monongahela Indian village where Location: South Side participants will have the opportunity to try Time: 1 – 4 PM Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 using the ancient atlatl. We will end the hike Location: Allegheny Cemetery at the Visitors Center for a 40-minute tour of Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 the famous Rockshelter. Museum admission PALEOINDIAN INTERPRETIVE WALK is included in the cost of the outing, so plan to Join us on a leisurely two mile interpretive visit the rest of the museum’s exhibits at your NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY WALK hike as you learn about the Paleoindians who leisure until 5 PM. Learn the basic elements of photography to faced a variety of challenges at the end of the help you capture your outdoor adventures. last Ice Age. The heavily forested West Virginia Date: Saturday, October 17 We’ll take a walk with an experienced Botanic Garden provides an ideal setting for Time: 10 AM – 1 PM amateur photographer who will help us gain a getting outdoors and learning about how Location: Meadowcroft better understanding of camera controls – these ancient people survived off the land. Cost: Member $15, Non-Member $20, Kids $12 what they do and how they can be used to This hike includes an opportunity to try your produce pleasing shots in the outdoors. hand at using an atlatl, a type of prehistoric Date: Sunday, November 8 spear thrower. Our guest trip leader for this GRETCHEN’S LOCK GHOST WALK interpretive hike is environmental educator Dare to explore Gretchen’s Lock in Beaver Time: 9 AM – 12 PM and historian Dr. John Boback. Creek State Park; reportedly one of the most Location: Fall Run Park Date: Saturday, October 10 haunted sites in Ohio. Local paranormal Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 expert, Kimberly Mitchell, will talk to us about Time: 10 AM – 12 PM the history of the area and share stories of the Location: West Virginia Botanic Garden encounters that have taken place here. Bring FRIDAY THE 13TH WALK Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18, Kids $10 along a tape recorder, flashlight, and camera Friday the 13th is considered a day of bad luck if you like – you never know if we’ll experience in many cultures around the world. Join us an encounter as well! when superstitions abound for a devilishly BETH ABRAHAM CEMETERY WALK entertaining evening at Allegheny Cemetery in Join us for an entertaining afternoon in Date: Sunday, October 18 Lawrenceville. As we stroll, we will learn the one of the area’s least known cemeteries Time: 4 – 7 PM history that surrounds this resting place. dating back to 1885. As we stroll through this Location: Beaver Creek State Park Date: Friday, November 13 Jewish cemetery at the edge of Carrick/ Cost: Member $15, Non-Member $20 Overbrook, we will learn the history that Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM surrounds this resting place and of the Location: Allegheny Cemetery interesting people who are buried there. HISTORY OF DEAD MAN’S HOLLOW WALK Cost: FREE – Members Only Date: Sunday, October 11 Spend the morning learning the history of Dead Man’s Hollow, near Boston, PA. Time: 1 – 4 PM Conserved by the Allegheny Land Trust, HISTORIC HARMONY HIKE AND Location: Carrick-Overbrook Dead Man’s Hollow was the site of a thriving GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12, Kids $6 industrial area 100 years ago that vanished Visit Historic Harmony on a brisk fall day! The after a fire and is the home of many mysterious Harmonist Society was an industrious German AUTUMN BIRD ID WALK tales. A representative from Allegheny Land religious sect that came to America to escape Trust will be on hand to share facts and stories persecution. On this easy 3-mile hike, we’ll Ever wonder what birds are using about the events that took place in this fascinating hear many stories as we explore their original Pittsburgh’s wooded hillsides for habitat? wildlife preserve’s past. 1804 settlement. After the hike, you may tour Join local naturalists on an autumn bird walk Date: Saturday, October 24 the Harmony Museum at your leisure and visit through Emerald View Park. The 3-mile walk their once-a-year German Christmas Market. will cover mostly easy terrain with some steep Time: 10 AM – 12 PM hills. This outing is gauged for the amateur or Location: Dead Man’s Hollow Date: Saturday, November 14 beginner bird enthusiast, but Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5 Time: 10 AM – 1 PM we encourage birders of all Location: Harmony levels to attend and contribute! GARFIELD AND GLASS WALK Cost: Member $10, Non-Member $15 Date: Sunday, October 11 Explore the Pittsburgh neighborhood of Time: 8 – 11 AM Garfield and its art and garden scene on a two DOAK FIELD WALK & KING’S CREEK CEMETERY Location: Emerald View Park mile walk. Afterward, we’ll visit the Pittsburgh Stroll through the leaf-littered forest of Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5 Glass Center for a hot glass demonstration and Raccoon Creek State Park and visit a cemetery guided tour of its contemporary glass gallery. with headstones predating the Civil War. Date: Sunday, October 25 King’s Creek Cemetery is home to intricately carved and impressively legible stones – the Time: 1 – 4 PM oldest of which dates back to 1810! We’ll hike Location: Garfield 2-3 miles around the park at an easy pace Cost: Member $18, Non-Member $22, Kids $15 while learning about its history. Date: Sunday, November 15 Time: 1 – 4 PM Location: Raccoon Creek State Park Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 6 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG DOGGIE DAY TREK - PLEASANT VALLEY ARCHAEOLOGY OF PITTSBURGH WALK CEDAR CREEK WALK Bring your canine companion for a social hike Archaeologists have had a field day unearthing Cedar Creek Park is the perfect fall destination. through Pleasant Valley Park in Murrysville. Pittsburgh’s past. Join us for a 3-mile walk Located along the Youghiogheny River in We’ll start out by letting the dogs get to know around Downtown Pittsburgh and the North Westmoreland County, the park trails follow each other; and then we’ll cover 4-5 miles of Shore with local Archaeologist Casey Campetti Cedar Creek and include two suspension trail. Off-leash time is included in the outing. of AECOM as she pieces together little-known bridges. We’ll cover 2-3 miles at an easy pace. Please remember: only 2 dogs per person; parts of Pittsburgh’s history through the Registration for this program closes Monday, dogs must have current vaccinations as artifacts and information found on local digs. November 24 at 4 PM. The VO office is closed required by law. Leashes are required. From the North Shore Connector to PNC 3; Thanksgiving Day and the day after. Date: Sunday, November 15 Casey will describe what was found, the Date: Sunday, November 29 significance of these sites, and what they can tell Time: 10 AM – 12:30 PM us about life around the Golden Triangle from Time: 1 – 3 PM Location: Pleasant Valley Park; the distant (and not-so-distant) past. Location: Cedar Creek Park Murrysville Date: Sunday, November 22 Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Time: 1 – 4 PM Location: Downtown Pittsburgh BRADDOCK’S HILL STROLL Braddock’s Hill Park is known for its spring Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 wildflowers, but it is also beautiful in the winter. We’ll stroll two miles along the wooded trail of this Irwin Borough park while learning the history behind its name. Date: Saturday, December 12 Neighborhood Hiking Series Time: 10 AM – 12 PM MODERATE Location: Braddock’s Hill Park Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHT HIKE – LAWRENCEVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHT HIKE – SHADYSIDE WINTER SOLSTICE STROLL Explore the East End neighborhood of Join us for 4-5 mile evening hike through Lawrenceville. Stretching along the Shadyside; one of Pittsburgh’s most Join us for an evening of exploration on a Allegheny River, the community is known charming neighborhoods. We’ll learn about moderate 4-mile hike around Hartwood Acres. for its hip business district, as the birth- the community as we explore its residential On the shortest day of the year, we will enjoy place of Stephen Foster, and for housing tree-lined streets to discover its captivating the tranquility of the evening, while listening the Allegheny Arsenal. We’ll follow the architecture and charming storefronts. for the critters that prefer the dark and stopping occasionally to gaze up at the stars. sidewalks, staircases, and side trails as we Date: Thursday, November 5 wind 4-5 miles on this evening adventure. Date: Tuesday, December 22 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM Date: Thursday, September 17 Location: Shadyside Location: Hartwood Acres Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Location: Lawrenceville Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHT HIKE – POINT BREEZE The large residential area of Point Breeze MODERATE NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHT HIKE – NORTH SIDE is home to the Frick Art & Historical DARK SKY NIGHT HIKE Center, Mellon Park, and Homewood What better way to see the city and stay fit Cemetery. Join us as we wind through Point Join us for an evening hike at Deer Lakes than an evening hike exploring Pittsburgh’s Breeze learning about the rich history Park followed by stargazing in a large open neighborhood of the North Side? Home to and architecture of this hidden gem of meadow at the top of a gentle hill with the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Pittsburgh. excellent views to all horizons. The Amateur Science Center, Heinz Field, and more, Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh will be we’ll follow the sidewalks, staircases, and Date: Friday, November 20 along with their telescope equipment to offer side trails as we wind 4 miles through the Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM their expertise and guidance. The hike will North Side. Location: Point Breeze cover 3-4 miles with some hills. Date: Thursday, October 15 Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Date: Saturday, September 5 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM Time: 7 – 10 PM Location: North Side Location: Deer Lakes Park Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12, Kids $6

NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHT HIKE – SOUTH SIDE BARBERRY FARM HIKE Located along the Monongahela River, the Explore the scenic grounds of 128-acre South Side is home to the business district Barberry Farm, a beautiful horse farm that stretches along East Carson Street. adjacent to Sewickley Heights Park. We’ll hike We’ll follow the sidewalks, rowhouses, and 3-4 miles while learning from the owner, side trails as we wind 4 miles through the Kirsten Recker, about the farm’s legacy South Side. breeding and raising famous thoroughbreds. Date: Wednesday, October 21 Date: Saturday, September 12 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM Time: 10 AM – 1 PM Location: South Side Location: Sewickley Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 7 FINEVIEW HIKE MOUNT DAVIS TREK LEWIS & CLARK HISTORY HIKE Explore the North Side neighborhood of Hike up and down the highest mountain in Did you know that Captain Meriwether Lewis Fineview. Propped on the hillside behind Pennsylvania, Mount Davis, on this 7-8 mile spent six long weeks in the Pittsburgh area in Allegheny General Hospital, the area is known trek. We’ll traverse moderate terrain with the summer of 1803 overseeing the construc- for its steep staircases, incline history, and some steep hills and stream crossings. This tion of his flagship keel boat and staging fantastic views. We’ll follow the sidewalks, hike is dog friendly! America’s greatest western adventure? On staircases, and side trails as we wind 4-5 Date: Sunday, October 11 August 31st of that year, he launched this miles on this afternoon adventure. vessel and made his first stop on Brunot’s Time: 10 AM – 4 PM Date: Saturday, September 19 Island on the Ohio River where a dramatic Location: Mt Davis incident with his newly acquired pneumatic air Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 rifle occurred. The events of that challenging Location: Fineview day mark the first entry in the famous Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 journals of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. WATERFALL HIKE Join living historian and national bicentennial Hike 7 miles beside some of the most reenactor, John McNulty on an educational 7 WARRIOR TRAIL HIKE spectacular waterfalls and whitewater rapids to 9-mile hike that will include music, live Hike one of the most scenic sections of that Pennsylvania has to offer! We’ll cover readings from the journals, and a fire starting the Warrior Trail in Greene County. The trails that range from easy to difficult, talking demonstration while learning about future Warrior Trail follows a 5,000 year-old path and about the history of the area along the way. developments in our area to protect and extends 67 miles through rural landscapes Date: Saturday, October 17 promote this important history. Beginning in from the Monongahela River in PA to the Ohio Time: 10 AM – 4 PM Pittsburgh’s historic West End Village, we will River in WV. We’ll hike 5-7 miles traversing climb up the backside of Mt. Washington near moderate terrain. This outing is designed to Location: Ohiopyle State Park the Duquesne Heights Greenway and Emerald showcase some of the best hiking in Western Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 View Park for fantastic views of the city and a Pennsylvania. This hike is dog friendly! great vantage point for discussing the past. Date: Saturday, September 26 DOGGIE DAY TREK Date: Saturday, November 7 Time: 10 AM – 4 PM Bring your canine companion for a social Time: 10 AM – 4 PM hike through Roaring Run Natural Area in Location: Warrior Trail Location: West End Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Forbes State Forest. We’ll start out by letting the dogs get to know each other, and then Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 we’ll cover 5-7 miles of moderate hiking SIX TO TEN TRAIL HIKE trails. Water is limited on the trail, so bring NINE MILE RUN HIKE We will hike the path of the historic Portage enough for you and your best friend. Off-leash Enjoy a 7-mile day trek along restored Nine Railroad as it climbs the Allegheny Front. When time is included in the outing. Mile Run. We’ll take in the bubbles and gurgles we reach the summit of Cresson Mountain, we Date: Sunday, October 25 of this lovely creek as it winds its way through will visit the National Historic Site and hear Frick Park to its terminus at the Monongahela Charles Dickens’ account of his journey on the and Sunday, December 20 Time: 10 AM – 1 PM River. We’ll eat our lunches along the banks of Pennsylvania Canal in March of 1842. the Mon and return through Frick Park. A Location: Roaring Run Natural Area Date: Sunday, October 4 representative from the Nine Mile Run Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Time: 10 AM – 2 PM Watershed Association will join us on our hike to teach us about this important watershed. Location: Duncansville, PA FALL FOLIAGE HIKE Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Date: Sunday, November 8 Fall is the perfect time of year for a vigorous Time: 11 AM – 4 PM hike through Raccoon Creek State Park. 1/2-DAY HIKE Orville Steininger will lead our hike to Location: Frick Park Explore North Park on this half day hiking Frankfort Mineral Springs for a refreshing Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 adventure. We’ll move at a steady pace over 4-6 view of the historic healing waters, then on to miles on moderate terrain. This hike is focused view a large grove of Sugar Maples alive in FULL MOON HIKE on showcasing the area, enjoying the company their fall colors. We will hike at a steady pace Join us for an evening of hiking and forest of others and getting in a great workout! along a 7.4-mile loop with an elevation change exploration under the light of a full moon. We of 250 feet. Experience fall in all its splendor! will enjoy the tranquility of the evening while Date: Saturday, October 10 This hike is dog friendly! Time: 10 AM – 1 PM observing the stars in the sky and listening for Date: Saturday, October 31 wildlife. The hike will cover 3-4 miles at an Location: North Park Time: 10 AM – 3 PM easy pace with moderate changes in elevation. Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 Marvel at how well your eyes can see by the Location: Raccoon Creek State Park light of the moon! Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Date: Wednesday, November 25 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM Location: Deer Lakes Park Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10

8 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG DAY TREK Spend a day in the woods, explore a trail, get some exercise and discover something new Urban Fitness about the world around us. We will hike 7-9 miles covering moderate to difficult terrain Hike Series within Moraine State Park. Rich in history, we will learn about the previous mining operations ADVANCED and glacial geology of the park and surrounding area. A multitude of scenery from woods and Exercise doesn’t have to be dull! This winter, streams to fields and the 3,225-acre Lake Arthur, come outside and play as we hike Pitts- Moraine State Park offers some of the best burgh’s rugged terrain. We’ll warm up hiking in Western Pennsylvania. This hike is dog quickly, climbing steep hills and impossibly friendly! Registration for this program closes high stairways with incredible views of the city from unusual vantages. This series of Monday, November 24 at 4 PM. The VO office WONDERLAND HIKE is closed Thanksgiving Day and the day after. nine challenging 5-6-mile weeknight hikes Get out of the city and enter the winter will move at a fast pace – we’ll work up a Date: Saturday, November 28 wonderland of the Laurel Highlands! We’re sweat! We will be stopping occasionally to Time: 10 AM – 4 PM going to escape the rush of the holiday season discuss local landmarks. Location: Moraine State Park and enjoy a hike through the peaceful woods of Laurel Hill State Park. A grove of old-growth Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Hemlocks, a serene lake, and plenty of woodland 12/3 Woods Run Top to Bottom creatures await! This hike is dog friendly! 12/17 Christmas Warm-Up NEW MOON HIKE Date: Saturday, December 19 Join us for a night hike in the darkness of a 1/7 North Side Topsy Turvy Time: 12 – 4 PM new moon. We will enjoy the tranquility of the 1/21 Mt. Washington & Beyond evening while observing the stars in the sky Location: Laurel Hill State Park and the critters that are more active at night. Cost: FREE – Members Only 2/4 Sewickley Town & Country The hike will cover 3-4 miles at a moderate 2/18 West End Up-And-Away pace going up and down some hills. Marvel at how well your eyes can adapt to the night! ADVANCED 3/3 South Side Slopes Date: Friday, December 11 WATERFALL HIKE 3/17 Oakland Top to Bottom Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM Hike 7 miles beside some of the most 3/31 Greenfield-Hazelwood: Up ‘n Over, Location: Riverview Park spectacular waterfalls and whitewater rapids that Pennsylvania has to offer! We’ll cover trails Around ‘n Back Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10 that will range from easy to difficult, talking about the history of the area along the way. RACCOON CREEK TREK Location: Various neighborhoods in and around Date: Saturday, September 5 Pittsburgh Spend a day in the woods as Orville Steininger leads us on a 6 to 9-mile hike covering moderate Time: 10 AM – 4 PM Time: 6 – 9:30 PM to difficult terrain within Raccoon Creek State Location: McConnells Mill State Park Single Hike Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Park. This park is one of the largest parks in Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Pennsylvania at 7,572-acres, including the Member Series Cost: $60 beautiful 101-acre Raccoon Lake. There are MCCONNELLS MILL HIKE both miles of marked trails and large tracts of undeveloped land area offering some of the Come to McConnells Mill State Park for one of best hiking in Western Pennsylvania. This hike the more challenging and scenic hikes is dog friendly! around. We will spend the day hiking 8 miles through Slippery Rock Creek Gorge and then STRENUOUS Date: Sunday, December 13 up along Hell’s Hollow. Formed by glacial COOPERS ROCK - LONG DISTANCE HIKE Time: 10 AM – 4 PM activity, the gorge is rugged and rocky, with Continue your quest for adventure with this Location: Raccoon Creek State Park house-sized boulders, rapids, old-growth hike at Coopers Rock, WV. Bruce Cridlebaugh forest and waterfalls. It’s even better when Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 will lead this new trek in the state park wet – after a heavy rain, the side drainages famous for its namesake sandstone outcropping sparkle and the whitewaters roar. METEOR SHOWER NIGHT HIKE providing an over 200º panorama, 1000 feet Date: Saturday, November 21 above the Cheat River. You are invited to join The Geminids offer one of the most Time: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM our group on a hike that explores the southern impressive meteor showers of the year, giving extent of the park including: 13+ miles of us the chance to see around 120 meteors per Location: McConnells Mill State Park boot-busting trail; two panoramic viewpoints; hour! We’ll be hiking right at its peak and will Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 over 4000 ft elevation change; a continuous cover 3-4 miles during this night hike in 2-mile climb from the Cheat Lake to the Round Hill Park. We will take some time to SPARKLE SEASON LIGHTS HIKE ridgetop; forests full of rhododendron, laurel turn off our flashlights and look up at the sky and hemlock; peak fall colors; plus rocks and for signs of the meteor shower. On this 7+ mile hike; we will visit the main light exhibits of Downtown Pittsburgh; and cliffs that far surpass anything in the PA Date: Monday, December 14 then hike up Sycamore Street to the top of Laurel Highlands. Time: 7 – 10 PM Mount Washington for a panoramic view of the Date: Saturday, November 14 Location: Round Hill Park city. This fast-paced hike covers a relatively Time: 8 AM – 5:30 PM large area in a short period of time. It’s the Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5 perfect way to experience the holiday season! Location: Coopers Rock, WV Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12 Date: Wednesday, December 2 Time: 6 – 9 PM Location: Downtown Pittsburgh Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 9 GHOST STORIES AND CAMPFIRE HIKE BACKPACKING The air is getting chillier and there are leaves crunching under our boots – it’s the MODERATE perfect time for a hike and campfire! We’ll walk about 2 miles before heading to a picnic BACKPACKING HICKORY CREEK WILDERNESS area where we’ll roast marshmallows and This two-day, two-night outing in Hickory listen to family-friendly ghost stories. Creek Wilderness will take hikers through one of only two Congressionally Designated Date: Saturday, October 24 Wilderness Areas in PA. We’ll start by heading Time: 5:30 – 7:30 PM up to Hearts Content Campground on Friday Location: Moon Park night. Saturday and Sunday, Orville Steininger Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5 will lead us along an 11-mile loop that showcases the beauty of the Allegheny National Forest. We’ll cover 5-6 miles per day HALLOWEEN PARTY TYKE HIKE while tent camping overnight. Prior backpacking BOO!!! Wear your costumes for our annual experience is recommended, but not required. Halloween Party Tyke Hike. We will end our Bring your own backpacking gear and food. Tyke Hike Season with our traditional walk The minimum age is 16. through Schenley Park, followed by trick or Date: Friday, September 11 – Sunday, September 13 treats and Halloween crafts. Great for children ages 0-5. Time: 9 PM – 3 PM Location: Allegheny National Forest Date: Saturday, October 31 Cost: Member $25, Non-Member $33 Time: 10 – 11:30 AM Location: Schenley Park FAMILY Cost: Adults FREE, Kids $5 BACKPACKING LAUREL HIGHLANDS HIKING TRAIL Dust off your backpacking gear as we EASY TOMBSTONE GEOCACHING experience the beauty of the Laurel Highlands. APPLE GOODIES WALK Collect tombstone rubbings along this Orville Steininger will review the basics and spooky geocache course in Homewood lead us on a backpacking hike to a shelter September is the start of apple picking Cemetery, near Frick Park. We’ll learn all along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. We’ll and we’re excited to show off this delicious about GPS (Global Positioning System) units cover 4-5 miles each day over moderate fruit. We’ll take an easy walk around Riverview as we walk to key historic tombstones and terrain. In the evening, we’ll build a campfire, Park and then find a shelter to taste some make rubbings of the stones. eat dinner, and then let the story-telling delicious homemade apple treats. begin. Along the way, we will stop to eat and Date: Sunday, September 6 Date: Saturday, October 31 talk about trees and edible wild plants. This is Time: 1 – 3:30 PM Time: 1:30 – 3:30 PM a great first-time backpacking trip. Cost Location: Homewood Cemetery covers guides and campsite fee. Bring your Location: Riverview Park own backpacking gear and food. Minimum Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5 Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12, Kids $5 age is 16. Date: Saturday, September 26 – Sunday, FAMILY CAMPOUT BIRD FEEDER GEOCACHING September 27 Enjoy a night of old-fashioned fun with The weather is cooling and most birds are migrating south for the winter; but not all of Time: 10 AM – 4 PM Venture Outdoors! Experience the wonders of the great outdoors on this family camping them! Families will create bird feeders for our Location: Laurel Ridge State Park overnight trip at Moraine State Park. We’ll winter feathered friends on this family geocaching Cost: Member $25, Non-Member $33 enjoy family-oriented educational activities outing. Find all of the materials you need by throughout the day. In the evening, we’ll cook using GPS (Global Positioning System) devices GOURMET BACKPACKING our dinner over a campfire, catch fireflies, to track them down. As the GPS units commu- roast marshmallows and spend a night under the nicate with satellites in space; they will guide Experience the beauty of Raccoon Creek State us to within feet of the hidden bird feeder Park on a fun backpacking excursion. We’ll stars. Cost covers camping reservation and guides. Bring your own camping gear and food. supplies. We will provide GPS units to share. A cover 4-5 miles the first day over moderate total of 2-3 miles is typically hiked during this terrain with stops at historic landmarks within Date: Saturday, September 12 – Sunday, event. One bird feeder per family. the park. In the evening, we’ll build a campfire September 13 Date: Sunday, November 1 and enjoy a gourmet meal made with light- Time: 12 PM – 12 PM weight cooking equipment. On the second day, Time: 10 AM – 12:30 PM Location: Moraine State Park we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast and hike 6-7 Location: South Park miles to the park office, completing the loop. Cost: Member $15, Non-Member $20, Kids $10 This is a great first-time backpacking trip. Cost: $25 per Family Cost covers guides, campsite fee, Saturday PUMPKIN DECORATING WALK HOT APPLE CIDER WALK dinner and Sunday breakfast. Bring your own Halloween is just around the corner, and backpacking gear, lunch and snacks. The we’ve found the pumpkin patch in North Park! Bring your whole family on this leisurely minimum age is 16. We’ll take a discovery walk, followed by stroll around Schenley Park. Afterwards we’ll Date: Saturday, October 3 – Sunday, October 4 snacks and pumpkin decorating. Great for indulge in some delicious hot apple cider with whipped cream, the quintessential warm-me- Time: 10 AM – 12 PM children of all ages. Each attendee receives a pumpkin. up drink. Location: Raccoon Creek State Park Date: Saturday, November 7 Cost: Member $35, Non-Member $46 Date: Sunday, October 18 Time: 1 – 3:30 PM Time: 1 – 3:30 PM Location: North Park Location: Schenley Park Cost: Member $15, Non-Member $20, Kids $10 Cost: Member $5, Non-Member $8, Kids $5

10 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG BLACK ‘N GOLD SCAVENGER HUNT HAUNTED HARD CIDER HIKE Let’s find our Pittsburgh pride! You’ll learn to SPECIALTY Learn about Lawrenceville and Allegheny use hand-held GPS (Global Positioning Cemetery’s haunted past on this 3-mile hike. System) units to locate your treasures. Each find EASY After listening to the spooky tales, we’ll stop will have a Pittsburgh or Black ‘n Gold theme! BEER TASTING HIKE AND BOAT CRUISE in at Arsenal Cider House and Wine Cellar. Owner Bill Larkin will be on hand to share the Date: Saturday, November 14 Spend an evening downtown hiking over intricacies of the small batch cider making bridges and along river trails from the South Time: 2 – 4:30 PM and lead a private tasting. Each participant Side to the North Shore. After the hike, we’ll Location: Allegheny Commons will receive a bottle of fresh hard cider straight board a Pittsburgh Water Limo boat and enjoy from the source! The minimum age is 21. Cost: Member $8, Non-Member $12, Kids $5 views of the city from the water while tasting specialty microbrews paired with breads and Date: Sunday, October 18 COCOA AND COOKIE ADVENTURE cheeses. Join us for this one of a kind Time: 10 AM – 1 PM If you like cookies dipped in milk, then try experience! The minimum age is 21. Location: Lawrenceville them dipped in hot chocolate! Warm up with Date: Saturday, September 19 Cost: Member $35, Non-Member $47 us as we take a nice afternoon stroll through a Time: 5:30 – 9 PM local park. Afterward, we’ll dip sugar cookies in hot cocoa! Come enjoy; and bring the parents! Location: Strip District GERMAN BIER TASTING HIKE Date: Sunday, November 22 Cost: Member $40, Non-Member $52 Witness the quirky buildings, historic homes, and fabulous art displays of Pittsburgh’s Time: 1:30 – 3:30 PM ARCHITECTURE WALK AND WINE TASTING: historic North Side on this 3-4 mile hike. We’ll Location: Schenley Park stop in at Max’s Allegheny Tavern for a German DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH Cost: Member $5, Non-Member $8, Kids $5 bier tasting from the experts. We’ll try their Enjoy some exercise, good food and drinks on hand-picked biers, along with appetizers like a Sunday afternoon. We’ll stroll around stuffed pretzels, sausages, cheeses and TWINKLE LIGHTS AND HOT COCOA WALK Downtown Pittsburgh stopping at key pierogies. “Prost!” The minimum age is 21. Celebrate the season by strolling among locations and our guest speaker Louise the sparkling lights and decorations covering Sturgess, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Date: Sunday, November 1 Downtown Pittsburgh. We’ll walk along History & Landmarks Foundation, will discuss Time: 2 – 5 PM sidewalks to see the main exhibits before building architecture. After the walk, we will Location: North Side stopping at a local coffee shop to warm up stop for a wine tasting paired with appetizers Cost: Member $27, Non-Member $35 with some hot cocoa! at the Capital Grille. Minimum age 21. Date: Saturday, December 5 Date: Sunday, September 20 HARVEST WINE TASTING HIKE Time: 6 – 8:30 PM Time: 1 – 4:30 PM Nestled Northeast of Pittsburgh is the charming Location: Downtown Pittsburgh Location: Downtown Pittsburgh vineyard of Narcisi Winery. We’ll start our gourmet Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10, Kids $5 Cost: Member $45, Non-Member $55 adventure with an easy walk through nearby Emmerling Park, and then head over to the winery for a tour of the vineyard and tasting of CANDY CANE WALK BRUNCH HIKE the local wines. The minimum age is 21. Join us for a family-friendly walk in the Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the rich park. We’ll search for candy canes hidden bounty of our local farms. Work up an appetite Date: Saturday, November 7 along the trail and afterward enjoy some on this easy, 2-3-mile hike through Boyce Time: 8:30 AM – 12 PM delicious hot chocolate! We’ll use the candy Park and afterward we’ll visit Eighty Acres, Location: Emmerling Park canes we find to stir the hot chocolate and add where Chef Don Winkie incorporates farm-fresh Cost: Member $25, Non-Member $33 a little extra flavor to this tasty treat. ingredients into his dishes. Date: Sunday, December 6 Date: Sunday, October 4 WHISKEY TASTING WALK Time: 1:30 – 3 PM Time: 11 AM – 2 PM Join us for a brisk walk through the Strip Location: Highland Park Location: Boyce Park District and surrounding areas. We’ll discuss Cost: Member $5, Non-Member $8, Kids $5 Cost: Member $25, Non-Member $33 the history of the area while connecting its riverfront trails, side streets and main corridors. After the walk, we’ll join Eric Meyer GINGERBREAD LETTERBOXING PERK UP HIKE for a tour of Wigle Whiskey, a craft whiskey Build a gingerbread dessert a different way Wake and warm up to an distillery in the Strip District. We’ll start with a by using clues to guide you to all of the eye-opening easy hike sure to cocktail, and then he’ll lead us through the building materials that you’ll need! You’ll be jumpstart your day. We will whiskey making process, including how taken on a scavenger hunt through the forest explore the picturesque whiskey production has affected Western PA’s in search of letterboxes. We’ll collect stamps neighborhoods of Pittsburgh with history. The tour will end with a tasting lesson featuring all of the components we’ll need to their tree-lined streets, local of samples of Wigle Whiskey accompanied with make our edible art. A total of 2-3 miles is coffeehouses and our favorite meats and cheeses. The minimum age is 21. typically covered on this outing. beans. A cup of coffee is included to Date: Saturday, November 21 Date: Sunday, December 13 send you on your way. Time: 1:30 – 4:30 PM Time: 1 – 3:30 PM Dates and Locations: Location: Strip District Location: Olson Park Wednesday, October 14 – Highland Park Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18, Kids $10 Wednesday, November 11 – Regent Square Wednesday, December 9 – Friendship Time: 6:30 – 7:45 AM Cost: Member $6, Non-Member $10

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 11 TEA ON HISTORIC ACADEMY HILL Stroll through Greensburg’s charming Academy Hill Historic District and learn about the past of this Nationally Registered Historic Place. You’ll walk among a selection of 240 magnificent 19th-century homes and businesses while enjoying choice views of Greensburg. After the walk, we’ll warm up with Afternoon Tea at the Victorian Lady of Academy Hill. Participants will receive a pot of tea, scones, a fruit garnish, tea sandwiches and assorted desserts. Date: Saturday, December 5 Time: 1 – 4 PM Location: Greensburg Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 HOMESTEAD HISTORY AND BEER HIKE SOUTH PARK BEER TASTING HIKE Enjoy an easy, informative hike in Homestead Explore 2,013-acre South Park on this 3-4 MULLED CIDER HIKE followed by a Pennsylvania craft beer tasting mile hike. We’ll hear about the history of the We’ll take a 3-mile hike through historic at the Blue Dust, a locally owned bar in the area while hiking the wooded trails. We’ll Lawrenceville while learning about its heart of this post-industrial town. The 2-3 finish at Spoonwood Brewing for a beer industrial past. Afterward, we’ll stop in at mile hike will lead us along the Monongahela tasting and snacks. The minimum age is 21. Arsenal Cider House and Wine Cellar. Owner River, and we will learn about the historic Date: Saturday, October 3 Bill Larkin will be on hand to share the Homestead Works steel plant as we pass intricacies of the small batch cider making some of its remaining artifacts. After the hike, Time: 2 – 5 PM and lead a private tasting, including a cup of we will enjoy a sampling of PA’s best brews Location: South Park hot mulled cider. Each participant will receive and some appetizers at the Blue Dust. The Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 a bottle of fresh hard cider straight from the minimum age is 21. source! The minimum age is 21. Date: Saturday, December 19 AUTUMN WINE TASTING HIKE Date: Sunday, December 6 Time: 2 – 5 PM Join us in the autumn landscape of Frick Park Time: 10 AM – 1 PM Location: Homestead and Point Breeze as we enjoy an easy 4-mile Location: Lawrenceville Cost: Member $25, Non-Member $33 hike while learning about the history of the area. We’ll end the hike at Pino’s Contemporary Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar to taste a HOLIDAY SOUP HIKE variety of high-quality wines paired with small COFFEE AND KOLACHES WALK It’s the time of year to celebrate your family, plates. The minimum age is 21. Learn the history of Beaver, a quaint town friends and, don’t forget, you! Join us on a Date: Saturday, October 17 located at the confluence of the Beaver and chilly day for a 3-4 mile hike that explores Ohio Rivers, on this 2-mile walk. Known for its Frick Park. After the hike, we will gather Time: 2 – 5:30 PM 19th century architecture, almost the entire under a pavilion and warm ourselves with a Location: Point Breeze community is listed on the National Register hot bowl of gourmet soup. There will be a Cost: Member $35, Non-Member $47 of Historic Places. Following the walk, we’ll go choice of two soups (one vegetarian), bread to Cafe Kolache where owners, Kristi and and hot beverages. Sponsored by Soup Sega! MT. LEBO BREW TASTING HIKE Hugh Harper, will treat us to a kolache tasting Date: Sunday, December 20 with coffee. This delectable doughy treat can Explore Mt. Lebanon, one of Pittsburgh’s most be filled with fruits, meats, cheeses and Time: 10 AM – 1 PM distinctive neighborhoods. We’ll hear about vegetables, and Cafe Kolache is well known Location: Frick Park the history of the area while hiking the for their homemade recipes. Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18, Kids $10 tree-lined streets. We’ll finish at Hitchhiker Brewing, a small-batch craft brewery for a beer Date: Saturday, December 12 tasting. The minimum age is 21. Time: 1 – 3:30 PM MODERATE Date: Saturday, October 24 Location: Beaver; PA ZELIE BREW TASTING HIKE Time: 12 – 3 PM Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 Enjoy a fall hike with a twist! We’ll stretch our Location: Mt. Lebanon legs on a 5-mile moderate hike through the Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 WINTER WINE TASTING WALK woods along Connoquenessing Creek in Enter the winter landscape of Boyce Park as Zelienople. Following the hike, we’ll visit PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE HIKE we enjoy an easy 3-4 mile hike while learning ShuBrew Handcrafted Ales & Pub, where about the history of the area. After the hike, owner Zachary Shumaker, will lead the group ‘Tis the season for pumpkin-infused everything; we’ll go to nearby restaurant Eighty Acres to in a tour of PA’s smallest brewery. Participants including cheesecake! We’ll hike 4-5 miles to taste a variety of quality wines paired with will enjoy a tasting of the beers and light work up an appetite before settling down at a small plates. The minimum age is 21. appetizers. The minimum age is 21. park shelter to enjoy this rich dessert. Date: Saturday, December 12 Date: Saturday, September 26 Date: Sunday, October 25 Time: 2 – 5:30 PM Time: 2 – 5 PM Time: 1 – 4 PM Location: Boyce Park Location: Zelienople Location: Schenley Park Cost: Member $40, Non-Member $52 Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $16

12 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG FELICITY FARM BRUNCH HIKE TRIP LEADER OUTDOOR SKILLS TRAINING A brisk 3-mile hike along the hilly trails of Want to learn or refine outdoor skills like Brady’s Run Park is a good way to work up an LEADERSHIP knot-tying, map and compass navigation, and appetite before enjoying brunch at a nearby RELAXED more? Come out and spend an afternoon in farm. Felicity Farm proprietor Anne Mayerich the woods learning basic outdoor skills for will give a tour of her property and afterward OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP TRAINING: ONE-DAY leading outings. Come away from the program serve her locally-famous homemade quiche; This day-long classroom-based training is with a better understanding of the dynamics muffins; tea breads; jams and seasonal fruit as designed to improve your leadership skills in at play in the outdoors and skills useful in we learn about this historic bed & breakfast. a format that fits your schedule. The 8 hour both trip leading and your every-day exploring. Registration for this outing closes on Wednesday, course is a fast paced mix of skill training, This program is designed for trip leaders who November 11 at 4 PM. awareness development and fun. The want to lead programs for Venture Outdoors. Date: Sunday, November 15 curriculum is based on our popular in-depth Date: Sunday, November 1 weekend training but scaled down to just Time: 10 AM – 1 PM cover the basics. No leadership experience is Time: 1 – 4 PM Location: Brady’s Run County Park necessary. In fact, that’s just what this course Location: Hartwood Acres Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27 is about – learning to be an excellent leader. Cost: Member $18, Non-Member $24 Topics include assessing the group, setting HOLIDAY PIE HIKE expectations, and managing risk. MODERATE Looking to get a little fresh air after the Date: Saturday, November 14 holiday? Come join us for a great 4-5 mile Time: 9 AM – 5 PM WILDERNESS FIRST AID hike through the local forests just before they Location: North Side This 16-hour course in Wilderness First Aid is go to sleep for the winter. After the hike we’ll taught by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of finish up with pie. Registration for this Cost: Member $50, Non-Member $67 NOLS. The interactive course is designed to program closes on Monday, November 23 at 4 provide outdoor enthusiasts, guides and PM. The VO Office is closed on Thanksgiving EASY rangers with an introduction to First Aid and Day and the day after. patient care in remote settings. Emphasis is Date: Friday, November 27 OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP WEEKEND placed on principles of treatment and decision-making, not the memorization of Time: 1 – 4 PM Designed to train Venture Outdoors volunteer Trip Leaders, the Outdoor Leadership lists. All levels of training and experience are Location: Settler’s Cabin Park Weekend is the perfect way to learn how to welcome. Camping is free. Dorm room Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $16 lead trips or improve your leadership skills. lodging is available for $20 per evening. This full weekend course mixes skill-training Everyone has access to bathrooms; showers POLISH FOOD HIKE and fun. The curriculum is based on that used and a full-service kitchen. Meals are not by the Appalachian Mountain Club and the provided. The minimum age is 16. Enjoy a steady-paced 4-mile hike around National Outdoor Leadership School. We beautiful Harrison Hills Park. The leaves will Date: Saturday, November 7 – Sunday, cover a lot of material in the classroom and be off the trees and the view from 400 feet November 8 create practical role-playing scenarios. Topics above the Allegheny River is sure to be include: leadership styles, group dynamics, Time: 7:45 AM – 5 PM spectacular. After the outing, we’ll join Mardelle trip planning, risk management and other Location: Crooked Creek Environmental Kopnicky at the Environmental Learning Center important trip leader skills. All meals and Learning Center for a sampling of Polish traditional holiday camping are included; onsite lodging is $20 food, including mushroom soup, marinated Cost: Member $225, Non-Member $260 per night. The course begins Friday evening herring, imported cheeses, kolbassi, pickled with instruction and a social. vegetables, and additional goodies. Date: Sunday, December 13 Date: Friday, September 18 – Sunday, September 20 Time: 2 – 5 PM PADDLING Time: 7 PM – 5 PM Location: Harrison Hills Park Location: Crooked Creek Environmental EASY Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27 Learning Center BEGINNER PADDLE – NORTH PARK Cost: Member $50, Non-Member $67 We’ll start with instruction on equipment and techniques, and then head on to North Park Lake for practice. With experienced guides to lead the way, you’ll see just how easy it is to paddle. We’ll take in the beautiful scenery of North Park as we kayak along the shoreline. Equipment, guides and instruction are provided. For this outing, we will only have solo kayaks available. The minimum age is 12. Date: Thursday, September 3 Time: 5:30 – 7:30 PM KAYAKPITTSBURGH.ORG Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Park Both locations are open through the Fall. Cost: Member $22, Non-Member $29 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 ECO-TOUR PADDLE TANDEM CANOE SKILLS FIREWORKS PADDLE Join us for an eco-tour of Lake Arthur. Learn the simplicity and splendor of gliding We will take a leisurely paddle up the Allegheny As we paddle our kayaks along the shoreline, through a serene lake in a tandem canoe. River and float back down toward PNC Park in we’ll share the fun facts of the ecosystem’s Instructors John and Kate Powell will share time for the fireworks show. Once the ball plants and wildlife. Only solo kayaks are their 30+ years of knowledge on paddling game is over, it is time to sit back, relax and available. The minimum age is 12. techniques. The class with start with on-land marvel at the fireworks. Feel all the BOOMS Date: Saturday, September 5 instruction and then get onto the water to and POPS vibrating the water from your front practice. Paddlers are welcome to bring their row seat. End time may run later if the baseball Time: 9 – 11:30 AM own boats, however, canoes are included in game goes into extra innings. Minimum age 8 Location: Moraine State Park the outing fee. years old with parent in tandem. Cost: Member $18, Non-Member $22, Kids $15 Date: Thursday, September 24 Date: Saturdays, September 12 and October 3 Time: 6 – 8 PM Time: 7:30 – 10 PM BEGINNER PADDLE – MORAINE STATE PARK Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Park Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore We’ll start with instruction on equipment and Cost: Member $10, Non-Member $15 Cost: Member $40, Non-Member $55 techniques, and then head onto Lake Arthur for practice. With experienced guides to lead the way, you’ll see just how easy it is to CANONSBURG LAKE RESTORATION PADDLE SYCAMORE ISLAND PADDLE paddle. We’ll take in the beautiful scenery of Discover Canonsburg Lake and learn of the Conserved by Allegheny Land Trust, Sycamore Moraine State Park as we kayak along the restoration work that is currently underway. Island hosts a unique floodplain hardwood shoreline. Equipment, guides and instruction We’ll paddle the 76-acre lake with a Member forest – among the most rare plant community are provided. Only solo kayaks are available. of the Chartiers Creek Watershed Association. types globally. Naturalists from Allegheny The minimum age is 12. Date: Sunday, October 4 Land Trust will talk about the island’s social Dates and Times: Saturday, September 12, and environmental history while our group Time: 1 – 3 PM explores the island by kayak and foot. Pack a 9 – 11 AM and Saturday, September 26, Location: Canonsburg Lake lunch and join us as we learn about this unique 10 AM – 12 PM Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27, Kids $15 island on the Allegheny River. Location: Moraine State Park Date: Sunday, September 13 Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27 MODERATE Time: 10 AM – 2 PM WEDNESDAY WAKE UP PADDLES Location: Blawnox STARGAZING PADDLE Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 A great way to view the stars while at North Wednesday Wake Up Paddles are a great way Park is during a new moon in a kayak on the to start your day. This hour-long, moderately- lake. The sun will go down and we’ll be able to paced paddle allows participants to enjoy the TGIF HAPPY HOUR PADDLE enjoy the celestial bodies above with the sunrise over the city every week. Each paddle Instead of sitting in traffic, enjoy the stress- beautiful park skyline in the background. is dependent upon river and weather conditions. free flat waters of the Allegheny River. This Date: Wednesdays, September 2 – October 7 moderately-paced paddle will take you on the Date: Sunday, September 13 water for an hour-long guided tour. The Time: 7 – 9 PM Time: 6:15 – 7:30 AM paddle ends at 7 PM, but there is no need to Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Park Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore rush home. We will stop by a local establishment Cost: Member $25, Non-Member $33 Cost: Member $12, Non-Member $18 near PNC Park for a round of complimentary appetizers. Beginner instruction not included; check out our Beginner Paddles. The minimum BEGINNER PADDLE – NORTH SHORE LEWIS AND CLARK HISTORY PADDLE age is 21. We’ll start with instruction and practice, and Did you know that the Lewis and Clark then head onto the Allegheny River to see just expedition started in Pittsburgh? 211 years Date: Fridays, September 18 and October 9 how easy it is to paddle. Bedazzled by the ago, Captain Meriwether Lewis spent 6 Time: 5:45 – 7:15 PM gorgeous Pittsburgh skyline, you won’t even frustrating weeks in the Pittsburgh area Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore realize that you’re suddenly paddling like a overseeing the construction of his flagship Cost: Member $15, Non-Member $20 pro! Equipment, guides and instruction are keel boat which had its maiden voyage on provided. The minimum age is 12. August 31, 1803. Lewis describes how he made a landing that day on Brunot’s Island in WOMEN ON THE WATER (WOW) PADDLE Date: Monday, September 14 Pittsburgh’s West End and experienced the Ladies take the helm! Enjoy a Sunday morning Time: 5:45 – 8:30 PM first of many near disasters when a civilian paddle along the waterways of Pittsburgh. Location: Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore was wounded during a demonstration of his Female guides will offer one-on-one instruction Cost: Member $25, Non-Member $33 now famous air rifle. Join local historian and for improving your paddling technique. Every national Lewis and Clark reenactor, John paddle will be geared for beginner to intermediate McNulty, in a paddle around this historic site paddlers that have been through a Beginner TUESDAY MORNING PADDLE and learn more about Western Pennsylvania’s Paddle class. Join other “women on the The tranquil lake at North Park is the perfect role in this fascinating chapter of our history. water” for a fun morning of exercise. The place to ease into paddling. We’ll begin with Previous kayaking experience is required for minimum age for solo kayaks is 12. on-shore instruction and then head onto the this outing. water for a peaceful paddle. This social outing Date: Sundays, September 20 and October 18 is geared toward active, aging adults at 55-80 Date: Sunday, September 6 Time: 9 – 11:30 AM years young, but is open to everyone. Time: 8 AM – 1 PM Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore Date: Tuesday, September 22 Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27 Time: 10 AM – 12 PM Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40, Kids $20 Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Park Cost: Member $18, Non-Member $24

14 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG ROCK CLIMBING MODERATE ROCK CLIMBING Imagine the feeling of using your own two hands and feet to pull yourself up the side of a cliff. Rock climbing is a popular outdoor sport great for strength and confidence building. We will hike a short distance over easy terrain to reach our climbing areas. Experienced guides will teach you about equipment, safety, tying knots, how to rappel, belay and some climbing techniques. After the introduction, we’ll practice rappelling and then do a few different climbs. This class is perfect for DESTINATION KAYAKING: FRENCH CREEK STARGAZING PADDLE beginners. All gear is included in the fee. The minimum age is 13. Join us for a paddle on French Creek, a View the star-studded sky from Lake Arthur. classic, pristine and historic northwestern We’ll paddle from dusk to dark and enjoy the Date: Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, Pennsylvania waterway. We will travel 10-12 celestial bodies above while moving among October 11 miles, accompanied by a representative of the the nighttime sounds. Time: 9 AM – 4 PM French Creek Valley Conservancy, who will Date: Monday, October 12 Location: Laurel Highlands provide information about the history and wildlife of the Creek. Time: 6 – 8:30 PM Cost: Member $50, Non-Member $67 Location: Moraine State Park Date: Sunday, September 20 Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27 Time: 10 AM – 4 PM Location: French Creek FALL FOLIAGE PADDLE WINTER Cost: Member $40, Non-Member $65 Paddle Lake Arthur at its most picturesque RELAXED – Fall! Witness the vibrant shoreline colors H3O NIGHT PADDLE reflecting on the water as we circumnavigate CROSS COUNTRY SKI WORKSHOP Experience art on the water as we paddle the Porter’s Cove. Previous kayaking experience is Join VO Cross Country Ski Trip Leaders for an Allegheny River at night. We’ll head upstream required for this outing. The minimum age is 12. introductory workshop on cross-country to find the Veteran’s Bridge alive with Date: Saturday, October 17 skiing. We’ll discuss the gear you’ll need, projected video, digital animation and where to ski based on the skier’s ability and immersive sound. For this event, Venture Time: 10 AM – 1 PM the techniques you’ll use when on the trails. Outdoors partners with The Drift to present Location: Moraine State Park Date: Tuesday, December 1 H3O. Our journey will explore the event on our Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27 way both to and from Washington’s Landing. Time: 7 – 8:30 PM Some paddling experience required. For more DESTINATION KAYAKING: PRESQUE ISLE LAGOON Location: Venture Outdoors Office information about past Drift projects visit Cost: FREE the-drift.org We’re throwing our kayaks on the trailer and taking them on the road to paddle beyond the Date: Friday, September 25 ‘burgh. Presque Isle State Park is known for SNOWSHOE WORKSHOP Time: 8:30 – 11PM its picturesque lagoons and beaches. We’ll Join VO Snowshoeing Trip Leaders for an Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore spend the afternoon exploring the bay. Guides introductory workshop on snowshoeing. We’ll Cost: Member $20, Non-Member $27 and all paddling equipment included. Previous discuss the gear you’ll need, the techniques kayaking experience is required. Participants you’ll use when on the trails, and highlight must be at least 12 years old to ride in their some of the best places in the region to HARVEST MOON PADDLE own kayak. Tandem kayaks are not available. snowshoe. Celebrate the Harvest Moon and the start of Date: Saturday, October 24 the fall season with an evening paddle on the Date: Tuesday, December 8 Allegheny River. We will head upstream and Time: 12 – 4:30 PM Time: 7 – 8:30 PM around Washington’s Landing, learning about Location: Presque Isle State Park Location: Venture Outdoors Office the river and sites along the shore. We will Cost: Member $40, Non-Member $65 Cost: FREE float back downstream enjoying the city’s skyline as it shimmers on the dark water, and then look for the harvest moon as it peeks from HOWL AT THE MOON PADDLE behind the downtown high-rises. Beginner Let’s celebrate the moon and fall season with instruction not included; see Beginner Paddles. an evening paddle on the Allegheny River. We will head upstream and around Washington’s Date: Sunday, September 27 Landing, learning about the river and sites along Time: 7 – 9:30 PM the shore. We will then float back downstream Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore to look for the moon as it peeks from behind Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 the downtown high-rises. Beginner instruction not included; see Beginner Paddles. Previous kayaking experience is required for this outing. Date: Tuesday, October 27 Time: 6 – 8:30 PM Location: Kayak Pittsburgh - North Shore Cost: Member $30, Non-Member $40 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 15 SEPTEMBER 2015 VENTURE OUTDOORS indicates multi-day outing

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 5 TriAnglers Beginner Paddle - Dark Sky Night Hike Wednesday Wake Up North Park Waterfall Hike Paddle Eco-Tour Paddle

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Apple Goodies Walk TriAnglers Backpacking Hickory Backpacking Hickory Lewis & Clark History Wednesday Wake Up Creek Wilderness Creek Wilderness Paddle Paddle Family Campout Wildflower Walk Rock Climbing Beginner Paddle - Moraine State Park Fireworks Paddle Barberry Farm Hike

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Backpacking Hickory Beginner Paddle - Bridges in the ‘Burgh Neighborhood Night Outdoor Leadership Outdoor Leadership Creek Wilderness North Shore Tour Hike Weekend Weekend Family Campout TriAnglers TGIF Happy Hour Ghost Town Trail Ride Riverfront Trail Ride Wednesday Wake Up Paddle Wingfield Pines Eco- Sycamore Island Paddle Walk Paddle Fineview Hike Doggie First Aid Hike Beer Tasting Hike and Stargazing Paddle Boat Cruise

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Outdoor Leadership Tuesday Morning TriAnglers Tandem Canoe Skills H3O Night Paddle Backpacking Laurel Weekend Paddle Autumn Equinox Night Highlands Hiking Trail Butler Freeport Trail Ride Hike An Introduction to Summer Tree ID Walk Wednesday Wake Up Spey Casting Architecture Walk & Paddle St. Clair Cemetery Walk Wine Tasting Warrior Trail Hike Women on the Water Beginner Paddle - (WOW) Paddle Moraine State Park Destination Kayaking: Zelie Brew Tasting French Creek Hike 27 28 29 30 Backpacking Laurel TriAnglers Season End Highlands Hiking Trail Celebration Fall Photography Walk Wednesday Wake Up North Side Mural Walk Paddle Allegheny River Trail Ride Harvest Moon Paddle

16 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG OCTOBER 2015 VENTURE OUTDOORS indicates multi-day outing

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 Gourmet Backpacking Fall Foliage Ride on the GAP Incline History Hike South Park Beer Tasting Hike Fireworks Paddle

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Gourmet Backpacking Wednesday Wake Up TGIF Happy Hour North Side Bike Tour: Six to Ten Trail Hike Paddle Paddle History & Architecture Brunch Walk Paleoindian Interpretive Walk Canonsburg Lake Restoration Paddle 1/2-Day Hike

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Train and Trail Ride Stargazing Paddle Perk Up Hike Neighborhood Night Riverfront Trail Ride Autumn Bird ID Walk Hike Walk through Mount Davis Trek Prehistory Rock Climbing Fly Fishing for Wild Brown Trout Beth Abraham Cemetery Walk Waterfall Hike Fall Foliage Paddle Autumn Wine Tasting Hike

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Gretchen’s Lock Ghost Neighborhood Night Ghost Stories & Walk Hike Campfire Hike Pumpkin Decorating History of Dead Man’s Hike Hollow Walk Haunted Hard Cider Destination Kayaking: Hike Presque Isle Lagoon Women on the Water Mt. Lebo Brew Tasting (WOW) Paddle Hike

25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Garfield and Glass Howl at the Moon Dravo Cemetery Ride Walk Paddle on the GAP Big Savage Tunnel Allegheny Cemetery Ride Walk Doggie Day Trek Halloween Party Tyke Pumpkin Cheesecake Hike Hike Tombstone Geocaching Fall Foliage Hike

VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG 17 NOVEMBER 2015 VENTURE OUTDOORS indicates multi-day outing

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Bird Feeder Neighborhood Night Wilderness First Aid Geocaching Hike Lewis & Clark History Trip Leader Outdoor Hike Skills Training Hot Apple Cider Walk German Bier Tasting Harvest Wine Tasting Hike Hike

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Wilderness First Aid Perk Up Hike Friday the 13th Walk Historic Harmony Hike Nature Photography and German Walk Christmas Market Nine Mile Run Hike Black ‘n Gold Scavenger Hunt Coopers Rock - Long Distance Hike Outdoor Leadership Training: One-Day

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Doak Field Walk & Neighborhood Night McConnells Mill Hike King’s Creek Cemetery Hike Whiskey Tasting Walk Doggie Day Trek - Pleasant Valley Felicity Farm Brunch Hike

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Archaeology of Full Moon Hike Holiday Pie Hike Day Trek – Moraine Pittsburgh Walk Cocoa & Cookie Adventure

29 30 Cedar Creek Walk

18 VENTUREOUTDOORS.ORG DECEMBER 2015 VENTURE OUTDOORS indicates multi-day outing

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 5 Cross Country Ski Sparkle Season Lights Woods Run Top to Twinkle Lights and Hot Workshop Hike Bottom - Urban Cocoa Walk Fitness Hike Tea on Historic Academy Hill

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Mulled Cider Hike Snowshoe Workshop Perk Up Hike New Moon Hike Braddock’s Hill Stroll Candy Cane Walk Coffee and Kolaches Walk Winter Wine Tasting Walk

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Gingerbread Meteor Shower Night Christmas Warm-Up - Wonderland Hike Letterboxing Hike Urban Fitness Hike Homestead History & Raccoon Creek Trek Beer Hike Polish Food Hike

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Doggie Day Trek Winter Solstice Stroll Holiday Soup Hike

27 28 29 30

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

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