Trips, Classes, and Clinics

Ever wanted to hike through untouched wilderness, carry everything you need on your back, and sleep under a sky full of stars? This is your chance! Join Outdoor Adventures for an unforgettable backpacking trip in Lassen Volcanic National Park, where steaming fumaroles, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks create the perfect backdrop for an epic adventure.

What is backpacking? Unlike car camping, where you set up camp near your vehicle, backpacking is all about exploration. You’ll carry your own gear—including food, clothing, and a tent—in a comfortable backpack as we hike into the wilderness, far from roads and crowds. Each step takes you deeper into nature, where you'll experience stunning views, fresh mountain air, and the rewarding feeling of self-sufficiency.

This trip is perfect for beginners and experienced adventurers alike! Our guides will teach you everything you need to know—from how to pack your bag to navigating the trails—so you can confidently enjoy one of California’s most unique national parks.

🌿 Trip Dates:
📅 Aug 1-3 (3-Day, Fri-Sun)
📅 Aug 15-17 (3-Day, Fri-Sun)

📅 Aug 29-Sept. 1 (4-Day, Labor Day Weekend, Fri-Mon)

Venture into the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada with a 3-day backpacking journey through Yosemite National Park—a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers, towering granite cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Home to some of the most iconic natural features in the world, Yosemite’s backcountry is where adventure and awe go hand in hand.

What is backpacking? Unlike car camping, where you set up camp near your vehicle, backpacking is all about exploration. You’ll carry your own gear—including food, clothing, and a tent—in a comfortable backpack as we hike into the wilderness, far from roads and crowds. Each step takes you deeper into nature, where you'll experience stunning views, fresh mountain air, and the rewarding feeling of self-sufficiency.

Yosemite National Park is more than a destination—it’s a rite of passage for outdoor adventurers. Whether you're chasing summit views, finding stillness beside a glacial stream, or simply soaking in the beauty of a star-filled sky, this trip offers a powerful blend of challenge and serenity.

🌿 Trip Dates:
📅July 4-6

Tucked between the Sacramento Valley and the towering Sierra Nevada, the Sierra Foothills offer the perfect blend of peaceful wilderness and golden landscapes. This 2-day camping getaway is your chance to relax, explore, and recharge beneath oak-dotted hills and starry skies.

🌿 Easy Adventure: Whether you're lounging by the water, exploring nearby trails, or just enjoying the fresh air, the Sierra Foothills offer an easygoing introduction to camping and outdoor living. No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to unplug.

The Sierra Foothills are a place to breathe deep, wander wide, and find beauty in the little things. Whether it’s your first time camping or your fiftieth, this weekend escape is a gentle and rewarding reminder of why we seek the outdoors.

🌿 Trip Dates:

📅 September 6-7

Ready to challenge yourself, scale real rock faces, and experience the thrill of climbing in the great outdoors? Join Outdoor Adventures for an unforgettable day of rock climbing. Our climbing areas are known for their scenic granite walls, and routes for all skill levels.

Whether you’re a first-time climber or a seasoned pro, this trip is all about fun, adventure, and pushing your limits in a supportive environment. Our experienced guides will teach you the basics of belaying, movement techniques, and climbing safety—so all you need to bring is a sense of adventure!

No experience? No problem! We provide all the gear and expert instruction—just bring your enthusiasm and get ready for an epic day on the rock!

🌿 Trip Dates:

📅 June 22, 29
📅 July 13, 27
📅 August 10

Get ready for an action-packed day of whitewater rafting on the South Fork of the American River! This iconic rafting destination is perfect for both first-timers and adrenaline seekers, offering breathtaking scenery, exciting rapids, and an unforgettable adventure on the water.

We’ll be tackling either the Upper or Lower section of the river, each offering its own unique challenges and thrills. No matter which section we run, expect big splashes, fast-moving water, and plenty of fun!

Upper vs. Lower – What’s the Difference?

🌊 Upper Section: Starts off easy, allowing you to get comfortable before building up to thrilling Class III rapids like "Troublemaker"—one of the most famous rapids on the river! A great mix of excitement and warm-up paddling.

🌊 Lower Section: Known as the "Gorge," this section starts out mellow but quickly transforms into a non-stop rollercoaster of Class III rapids, including legendary drops like "Satan’s Cesspool" and "Hospital Bar!" Perfect for those craving back-to-back thrills.

No experience? No problem! Our expert guides will teach you everything you need to know before we hit the river. All you need is a sense of adventure and a willingness to paddle!

🌿 Trip Dates:

📅 June 14, 28
📅 July 5, 13, 20, 26

📅 August 2, 9, 10, 30

📅 September 6, 13, 14, 20
 

Do you have a group of 10 or more and want to set up a private group booking? Contact us at oawater@ucdavis.edu for more information.