About this event

Join other members of our queer community in OUT Backpacking through the Santa Cruz Mountains at Portola Redwoods State Park! Whether it is your first time backpacking or you are a seasoned expert, we will have a wonderful expedition in store! Explore the redwood forests and riparian corridors of our local redwood forests. Backpacking and camping equipment can be provided if indicated on the registration page.

Waivers/Registration: All participants must be registered individually and have approved the online waiver through this page.

Meeting Location: Portola Redwoods State Park

Carpooling: Carpooling is a great way to make friends and do better for the environment. Participants are encouraged to carpool and will be provided a carpool sign up list for those interested.

Accessibility:

There is no cell service in the campground or the roads leading to it. Potable water spigots and restrooms are available in the meeting location. When camping in the backcountry, participants will use water filters, which can be provided upon request, for drinking water. The trail camp requests participants to dig catholes to dispose of waste. Please visit the campground's website (Slate Creek) for detailed information on what amenities are available within the campground.

Participating will require hiking approximately 7 miles with 1300 feet of elevation gain across over two days while carrying a backpack of 20 - 40 lbs. It will also require being without power or cell reception for the duration of the program.

Meals

Our partners at CA State Parks have generously offered to provide dinner and breakfast for participants of this program. Please include any dietary restrictions in your registration. Participants will need to bring their own lunches for Saturday and Sunday.

What to Bring:

We understand that not all participants may not have everything listed below and that is not a problem whatsoever! Our community has extra supplies, access to gear libraries, and are willing to share with one another. Please include what you may need to borrow in your registration.

Tent
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Backpacking Backpack
Lunch for Saturday and Sunday
Water Filter
Clothes and shoes that you feel comfortable hiking in
Sun protection (sunscreen, sun hat)

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on trails at this park. We love your pets, but please leave them at home for this event.

Cancellations:

In the event that we must cancel an adventure due to extreme weather conditions or poor air quality, the team will reach out via email no later than 5:00 PM, 3 days prior to this event.

Branching Out Adventures encourages people from all identities and backgrounds to participate in our programs. Many of our programs are outdoors and involve moving in a variety of landscapes. If you have accessibility concerns (e.g. allergies, limited mobility, learning differences), our projects are flexible and we are happy to work with you. Please contact us at admin@branchingoutadv.org