The Best Outdoor Adventure Clubs in the USA
Outdoor adventure clubs are available across the nation for all ages and activities. Some of these regional clubs focus on specific outdoor activities such as climbing or camping. Other park sponsored clubs focus on a specific age such as youth or seniors. There are 3 clubs that appear to be the best outdoor adventure clubs in America as they are the largest and most well know. They are the Sierra Club, The American Alpine Club and the Outdoor Adventure Club.
The Sierra Club
This club has members from around the world who can participate in adventure trips around the United States and the world. Examples of these featured trips include kayaking in a state park in Florida, cross country skiing in a national park, snowshoeing in the mountains or hiking in a variety of locations. Trips are scheduled well in advance and members can sign up for those they want to attend. Each trip includes food, lodging and transportation as needed. Participants can choose which activities to attend during the vacation as their ability allows and are responsible for transportation to the location. For example if the vacation is snowshoeing in Yellowstone the participant must pay for the flight into the Yellowstone area.
Trip details are available at the club’s online website. Details given include specific activities during the vacation, what is included in the price, lodging details, transportation details, skill level required and tips on what to bring for equipment. Individuals are not automatically accepted onto any trip they choose, but must be approved by the trip leader. This ensures everyone will get the most out of the trip.
American Alpine Club
This club focuses more on mountaineering and climbing. This national club has regional leaders that coordinate regular activities. Club membership has many benefits including discounts at gyms and additional insurance for climbers. The club focuses on conservation and advocacy.
The Outdoor Adventure Club
This club is not national but is based in California. Run by professional guides the club provides a variety of outdoor activities each weekend. They do plan one international trip each year. Members are drawn primarily from northern California. The guides on each trip prepare the meals and provide instruction on outdoor skills appropriate to that adventure. This could include rock climbing, kayaking, snow shoeing, mountain biking, or camping as a few examples. Trip difficulty ranges from easy to hard, but is clearly marked and those who don’t have the skills can learn them from the experienced guides. The club also offers international trips at least once per year. These adventures have included places such as Patagonia, Chile, Peru and Kilimanjaro. The calendar of events is located online at their website.
These are the top three outdoor adventure clubs in America. They provide professional guides and support services for every trip. Individuals can sign up for specific trips and activities even when they are not members of the clubs. There are many smaller clubs that serve local regions. Check with state or regional parks for information on local clubs and their activities.
