January 27, 2023—Hikes after the fires Potluck - Bill Sullivan

Author and hiking guru William L. Sullivan takes us on a slide show tour of new and changed trails he discovered while updating his “100 Hikes” guidebooks for Oregon. Sullivan will also talk about what’s changed because of recent wildfires, tell how to get permits for trails with limited access, and describe terrific but overlooked trails.

February 24, 2023—Think Snow! Potluck - Jarl Berg

Jarl Berg grew up in Eugene and has had SNOW as a lifelong theme. His grandfather started Berg's Ski Shop in 1955, where Jarl worked for 17 years. An expert in Nordic and telemark skiing, Jarl will share his love of snow and present a fun piece of Obsidian history related to skiing aspects of the club and winter activities. Social time begins 6:05 pm; Potluck begins 6:30 pm; Presentation 7:30 pm (Signing up for the potluck is optional. You're welcome to show up without signing up or, if you're not the potluck type, you can show up just for the presentation.)

March 31, 2023—Summer Camp Rally

Camp Hawkins is in the Sawtooth Range near Stanley, Idaho, August 6-12. If you are interested in this adventure, be sure to attend. We will discuss the registration process, camp logistics, and show slides of the primitive campground, the area, and orecreational opportunities. Social time 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM; Potluck begins promptly at 6:30 PM; Presentation begins 7:30 PM. (Signing up online for the potluck is optional. You're welcome to attend without signing up.)

April 28, 2023—Summiting Mt Everest Potluck - Eric Gran

What’s it like to climb Mt. Everest...not as a professional climber or life-long mountaineer, but from the vantage point of a working dad and weekend warrior? What’s it like to live in base camp or suck air through an oxygen mask on the ascent? What’s the feeling when you finally reach the summit? Eric Gran, who completed Obsidian Climb School in 2017 and went on to summit Mt Everest in 2020, will walk us through his experience through his photos and stories.

May 19, 2023—Experiencing Antarctica Potluck - Lana Lindstrom

Antarctica is the world's biggest desert and has the world's largest ice sheet. Here, nature reigns - adorable penguins, curious seals, thousands of seabirds, and sculpted ice bergs. For naturalists and historians, the surrounding islands, including South Georgia, the Falklands, and the South Orkney Islands, are equally appealing. Lana will share photos of her three-week experience in this extraordinary environment.

September 29, 2023—Birding in Colombia Potluck - Randy Sinnott

Did you know there are over 10,000 bird species in the world… and Colombia has about one-fifth of them? This spring, our fellow Obsidians member, Randy Sinnott, went on a three-week birding tour of Colombia with a focus on listing birds, i.e., finding the most species. He traveled from Santa Marta to Bogota to Cali and listed over 500 species! He will give us his impressions of the country, the people, landscapes and, of course, all the incredible birds he saw. Expect to be wowed by the incredible photos of birds in his avian presentation.

October 27, 2023—Patagonia Potluck - Valerie Metcalfe

Obsidians member, Valerie Metcalfe, always wanted to travel to Patagonia and, last November, her dream came true after she signed up for a two-week tour to the Patagonia Wilderness. Beginning in Buenos Aires and finishing in Ushuaia, we will relive her journey with her as she shows her stunning photos and shares her experiences of hiking up to Laguna de Los Tres to a glacial lake surrounded by jagged peaks, of listening to thundering ice cracking from Argentina’s Perito Moreno Glacier, and of camping and trekking in the famous Torres del Paine National Park. In addition to seeing such spectacular views, she saw a variety of animals, including guanacos and nesting penguins. As an added plus, she will share hints of how to experience such travel independently, outside of paying a tour group.

November 17, 2023—Marli Miller on Geology - ExploraTalk / Potluck

This is an ExploraTalk presentation: Marli Miller is a senior instructor at UO in the Dept. of Earth Sciences. She always makes the science of geology understandable and fascinating as she did when she spoke at the Lodge most recently. Her 2021 book, "Oregon Rocks!', describes Oregon's wonderful geology. Since then, her online posts with photos demonstrate what a poetic and accomplished writer and photographer she is. Join us for the potluck at 6:30 PM and/or come to hear and see her presentation at 7:30 PM as she will unearth our NW land features in a compelling way. You will leave the Lodge eager for your next road trip!

May 26, 2022—May Potluck Party

It has been over two years since we last had a potluck at the lodge. This potluck party will be a chance to reconnect with people who you may not have seen over the duration. There will be no formal program, just a chance to enjoy good food with good company. Weather permitting, we can be outside for a more open, party-like atmosphere. As with previous potlucks, bring your own table setting and be prepared to take your dirty dishes home to wash. If people want to bring card games or other games, please do. The party will end at 7:00.

September 30, 2022—Potluck Summer Camp Reunion

Welcome Back! Please join us for our fall potluck and a chance to reconnect and share memories of Camp Reiter. Guests welcome.

October 28, 2022—October Potluck, Buzz Blumm

Buzz has travelled & hiked extensively throughout the southwest the last six years. The presentation will be a slide show and discussion of many of his explorations.

November 18, 2022—Potluck, Marci Hansen

Marci Hansen and Brian Larson drove their van to the border of Utah and Arizona to hike some canyons. You will see maps, videos and photos and hear stories on how they did it, and their recommendations.

January 31, 2020—New Hikes in OR & WA

William L. Sullivan, Oregon’s hiking guru, takes us on an illustrated tour of a dozen new hikes he discovered while researching the just-released fifth edition of his book, “100 Hikes in NW Oregon & SW Washington.” Come discover a new waterfall trail near Hood River, an overlooked wildflower hike on the permit-free side of Mt. Adams, and a new kid’s hike along the Columbia River near Portland. Along the way get the latest news about fire-damaged trails in the Columbia Gorge, as well as anecdotes about history, wildflowers, and more.

February 28, 2020—Biking in Mongolia

Experience Mongolia from the saddle of Joe Hindman, a touring cyclist. We will explore a 477 mile, 3-week solo bike ride across a swath of the Mongolian steppe. The Mongolia of Genesis Khan, nomads, yurts, yaks, ovoos, hunting eagles, horse culture, and vast open spaces will be savored.

March 27, 2020—Exploring Croatia

Poised between the Balkans and central Europe, this rugged beautiful land has been passed between competing kingdoms, empires and republics for millennia. If there is an upside to this continual disruption, it’s in the rich cultural legacy that each has left behind. Venetian palaces snuggle up to Napoleonic forts, Roman columns protrude from early Slavic churches, and Hapsburg empire architecture faces off with Socialist realist sculpture. Long-time Obsidian, Darko Sojak, will present about Croatia and the region.

March 27, 2020—Walking in the UK

Long-Distance Walking in the UK (The Easy Way). Obsidians Carla and David Cooper will share photos and highlights from their five walks in England and Scotland. Come hear why long-distance walking in the UK is so appealing as they take you along Wainwright’s Coast to Coast, the west Highland Way, the Cotswold Way, the Great Glen Way, and the Speyside Way.

April 24, 2020—Walking in the UK

Long-Distance Walking in the UK (The Easy Way). Obsidians Carla and David Cooper will share photos and highlights from their five walks in England and Scotland. Come hear why long-distance walking in the UK is so appealing as they take you along Wainwright’s Coast to Coast, the west Highland Way, the Cotswold Way, the Great Glen Way, and the Speyside Way.

April 24, 2020—Exploring Croatia

Poised between the Balkans and central Europe, this rugged beautiful land has been passed between competing kingdoms, empires and republics for millennia. If there is an upside to this continual disruption, it’s in the rich cultural legacy that each has left behind. Venetian palaces snuggle up to Napoleonic forts, Roman columns protrude from early Slavic churches, and Hapsburg empire architecture faces off with Socialist realist sculpture. Long-time Obsidian, Darko Sojak, will present about Croatia and the region.

May 29, 2020—Biking Taiwan!

Virginia Xing, avid cyclist, photographer and co-owner of Eugene’s Bicycle Way Of Life, takes us on an exciting bicycle journey of beautiful Taiwan. Virginia will amaze us with the wonderful food, friendly people, and beauty of this island once called Formosa.

January 25, 2019—New Hikes in the Central Oregon Cascades

Our favorite author and hiking guru, Bill Sullivan, takes us on a tour of a dozen new or dramatically changed trails in the area between Salem and Bend, including a new path along the Deschutes River north of Bend, a new bird refuge trail at Salem, and several reopened trails to wildflowers in the Cascades. These will be part of his pcoming 5th edition of “100 Hikes in the Central Oregon Cascades.” He’ll also discuss the effects of wildfires and the Forest Service’s new permit system. Along the way, expect anecdotes about local history, plants, and outdoor lore.

February 22, 2019—Glacier Park Summer Camp

We are going to Glacier National Park September 1- 7! If you think you may be interested in this adventure, be sure to attend this program. We will discuss the registration process, camp logistics, and show slides of some of the amazing hikes. Additional information is available on our website.

March 29, 2019—The Willamette Water Trail

Enjoy a virtual paddle trip down the Willamette River Water Trail with Michelle Emmons, Willamette Riverkeeper's South Valley Program Manager, and avid paddling explorer. Learn how to plan your own aquatic adventure, and gain insight on how the Willamette River's water quality has changed, what challenges our river faces today, and how you can help.  

April 26, 2019—Hiking the UP North Loop

North America’s Next Great Thru-hike Challenge - The UP North Loop: a 2,600 + mile linkup of the Oregon Desert Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail & Idaho Centennial Trail with Ras and Kathy Vaughn.

May 31, 2019—Grand Staircase Escalante

GrandStaircase Escalante National Monument with Mel Mann

September 27, 2019—Coffee Production

Physical and chemical considerations of coffee production with Christopher Hendon  

October 25, 2019—Exploring Morocco

Exploring Morocco with Lana Lindstrom

November 22, 2019—Wallowas/Elkhorn Mountains

Come join us on November 22nd in a hiking and climbing presentation on the Wallowa Mountains. Jeff Carr and Ela Schmidt are currently working on their climbing guidebook for that region and would like to share those experiences with you. If you have ever wanted to hike in the Oregon Alps, then this will be an evening well spent.

January 26, 2018—Hikes in Southern OR & Northern CA

Oregon's hiking guru, Bill Sullivan, takes us on a slide show tour of new trails he discovered while researching the new fourth edition of his book, 100 Hikes/Travel Guide: Southern Oregon & Northern California. We'll find hidden lakes in the Trinity Alps, relocated trails at Crater Lake, and wildflower meadows in the Siskiyous. As always, Sullivan spices his talk with notes on the geology, wildlife, and history.

February 23, 2018—John Muir

Barbara Mossberg presenter

March 30, 2018—Hiking in Norway

Caroline Forell & Dave Strutin presenters

April 27, 2018—Rafting the Grand Canyon

Diane Schechter &Pam Caples presenters

May 18, 2018—Hiking the Continental Divide

The First Women’s Hike of the Continental Divide Trail-1978 - Jean Ella presenter

September 28, 2018—Living Well Without Waste

Prevent it! Living Well Without Waste. Every day, the typical American is exposed to more than 3,000 advertising messages; consumption is at an all-time high. By exploring the environmental impacts of the stuff we buy, we can learn the value of consuming less, ways to resist pressure to buy unnecessary things, and options to reduce the amount of trash we generate. Presenter: Emily Shelton, BRING Education and Events Manager.

October 26, 2018—A Glimpse into History

A Glimpse into History: What Prominent People Have Said About Nature in Oregon and the Need to Conserve It. Author and presenter, former Sierra Club Executive Director Michael McCloskey

November 30, 2018—Through the Inside Passage

Inside: One Woman's Journey Through the Inside Passage. This is the inspiring story of a physical and emotional solo journey of 1,200 miles in an 18' sea kayak. Author and presenter, Susan Conrad

January 27, 2017—New Hikes on the OR Coast

Bill Sullivan, Oregon's hiking guru, takes us on a slide show tour of a dozen new trails he discovered while researching the latest edition of his book, "100 Hikes/Travel Guide: Oregon Coast & Coast Range

February 24, 2017—Fife Trail, Scotland

Join long-distance hiker Al LePage as he shares an unusual and reflective journey on the east coast of Scotland during the last week of December.

March 24, 2017—America’s National Parks

AMERICA'S NATIONAL PARKS - An Insiders Look Last year America celebrated the centennial (100 year) anniversary of the National Park Service. How did this proud organization get its start? Who were the early personalities and its influential leaders? What is it like to be a National Park Service ranger today? What does the future hold for our American treasures? Our speaker shares the unique perspective of a park ranger who has seen and experienced first-hand, the wonders, history and traditions of our national parks. He will tell tales of America's 700 year old apartment dwellers as well as the secrete of how Yellowstone park rangers make their geyser eruption predictions! Eugene resident Doug Crispin is a retired Oregon State Parks ranger and semi-retired National Park Service ranger. He has also worked in 13 Western national park areas. In May Doug returns to Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado) for his 45th summer working in the park profession.

April 28, 2017—Cycling Hokkaido, Japan

Get inspired by Ruthy Kanagy to cycle the island of Hokkaido, gem of Northern Japan. See beautiful scenery, experience local culture, and learn about the indigenous people.

May 19, 2017—New Zealandby Bike

New Zealand by Bike, Boots and Boat by Mike Wolf With snow capped peaks, beautiful coastlines, tussock plains, and plentiful wildlife, New Zealand is an outdoor adventure paradise geared up for a diversity of outdoor recreational adventures suitable for any level of activity and budget. This will be a slideshow/talk recounting five months of self-supported, self-guided cycle touring and multi-day backpacking and kayaking trips throughout the North and South Islands.

June 23, 2017—Conserving Rhinos in South Africa

Conserving Rhinos in South Africa - Judy Adamcyk Judy was part of an EarthWatch scientific research team which is studying the effects of de-horning rhinos to discourage poachers. The volunteers tracked the rhinos to monitor their behavior and habits. Lots of other animals and birds were observed as well.

September 22, 2017—Images from the Polar Extremes

Photographer and photo editor Krista Rossow will share images from expeditions she took with National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctica.

October 27, 2017—Plate Tectonics & Pacific NW

Beauty from the Beast: Plate Tectonics and the Landscapes of the Pacific Northwest with Bob Lillie The same geological forces that threaten our lives with earthquakes and volcanic eruptions also nourish our spirits by forming spectacular mountains, valleys, and coastlines. Dr. Bob Lillie relates this "Beauty from the Beast" story of the Pacific Northwest by highlighting spectacular scenery in national, state and local parklands. He draws on his experience as a geology professor, park ranger and graphic illustrator to remind Northwest residents that our towns and iconic parklands are subject to geologic processes that affect our lives and livelihoods. By learning to live with the beast of earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, we can more fully appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. Dr. Robert J. (Bob) Lillie is a writer, illustrator, and national park ranger specializing in communicating park landscapes and their deeper meanings to the public. He was a Professor of Geosciences at Oregon State University and has authored several books. He lives in the Coast Range near Mary's Peak.

November 17, 2017—Walking With Masai Youth

Walking with Masai youth in Kenya, Africa - Pat Boleyn, presenter

January 22, 2016—Skiing Denali’s Shadow

No snow in Oregon? Go to Alaska! That's what Obsidians Lana Lindstrom, Lyndell Wilken, Sue Wolling, and their friend Jean Snuggs did last March. They skied and snowshoed near Denali National Park for 4 days. Then they traveled by train to Fairbanks in order to view the Aurora Borealis. Lana will share slides of their amazing experiences at the program following the potluck.

February 26, 2016—Hikes in Eastern Oregon

Bill Sullivan presents new hikes in Eastern Oregon

March 25, 2016—African Adventure

Bucket List: Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and the Serengeti with Peter Baxter, African adventure guide, author and historian. Have you dreamed of standing at the peak of one of the Seven Summits? Or experiencing one of earth’s last and largest natural areas, teeming with wildlife? Stepping back in time to the origins of mankind in Olduvai Gorge? Diving into the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean along the ancient Spice Routes? Your bucket list is about to get real! You’ll learn how to prepare and train to wind your way through four distinct habitats to reach the fabled 19,341-foot Uhuru Peak. Follow that high point by exploring the cultural richness, natural history and wildlife of the Serengeti plains, and wrap this once-in-a-lifetime experience on the beaches of exotic Zanzibar. Peter will share insights and inspiration from his long career guiding hikers, history buffs and nature lovers in this fascinating and quickly changing part of the world.

April 22, 2016—Oregon Geology one road at a time

Oregon hosts the shortest, yet one of the most interesting and event-filled geologic histories of any western state. This history includes the building of Oregon’s foundation and its addition to the North American Continent, creation of numerous mountain ranges, and unimaginably huge volcanic eruptions. We see this history in Oregon’s rock record, which underlies an equally interesting and diverse landscape, and which is exposed along Oregon’s highways. In this talk, geologist and photographer Dr. Marli Miller of the University of Oregon will describe Oregon’s geological story as laid out in her book Roadside Geology of Oregon. She will have copies of the book for purchase and signing after the talk.

May 20, 2016—Alpenstocks to Ice Axes

Obsidian Ascents: Alpenstocks to Ice Axes Curious about Obsidians and Pacific Northwest climbs? Join Maryanne Reiter, Obsidian Climbs Chair, and explore the history of Obsidian mountaineering through its climbers, gear and climbing philosophy. Things have changed!

June 24, 2016—Southern California Coast Walk

Interested in a long distance walk in the US, where you can stay in nice lodgings every night and have luggage transported for you like in Europe? Burgess brings us details of a world-class long distance walk in Southern California, including stunning natural beauty, spectacular sandy beaches, homes of Hollywood stars studding the path, and cozy neighborhood enclaves. Her daily diary of trip sketches will inspire the artist/hikers among us. Tyler Burgess of Walk With Me is the author of several guidebooks: "Southern California Coast Walk", "Eugene Oregon Walks", "Seattle Townscape Walks", and "Oregon Townscape Walks." She organizes and leads walking trips in Europe and the USA and leads marathon walking training groups in Eugene.

September 23, 2016—Birds & Butterflies at the Border

Birds and Butterflies at the Border - South Texas The Lower Rio Grande Valley has recorded more than 500 bird species, 300 butterfly species, and over 1,200 plant species. With eleven different habitat types, it is one of the most biologically diverse areas you can visit without using a passport. Join local naturalist and longtime Obsidian member, Rick Ahrens, for a lively and informative presentation on the ecological and cultural life at the border.

October 28, 2016—Staying Active, Staying Strong

Presented by Wendy Simmons, LCC Employee Fitness Coordinator. Movement is the key to healthy aging. Do you want to be hiking at age 90? Get ideas how to maintain strength, agility, and balance. Learn how to continue to stay motivated and energetic by doing the activities you enjoy. This talk is for all ages and fitness levels.

November 18, 2016—Pacific Crest Trail, Washington Section

Author and columnist Bob Welch takes us on the latest section of his quest to complete the entire Pacific Crest Trail, a 12-day, 217-mile trip from just north of the Columbia River to Snoqualmie Pass east of Seattle last summer. Goat Peaks Wilderness. Mt. Adams. Mt. Rainier. Welch found Washington more rugged and beautiful than he imagined. Bob Welch is a longtime Register-Guard columnist/editor, author of 21 books and PCT hiker since 2011, when he completed a 26-day, 452-mile trip on the entire Oregon PCT. Since then, he is upped his total to 900 miles, just over a third of the entire trail and hopes to do the rest in the next four summers.

January 23, 2015—Bill Sullivan

New and Endangered Oregon Wilderness Hikes

February 27, 2015—Winter Olympics at Sochi

2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi with Lana Lindstrom The stars were aligned: the Olympics have always been one of Lana’s favorite events; she speaks Russian fluently; and the Olympic Committee was seeking volunteers! At the end of a two-year process, she spent almost three weeks in Sochi. Her job was in Event Services at the Cross Country Ski/Biathlon venue – helping spectators navigate the security system, providing directions, ushering, and generally assisting patrons. Lana will be sharing slides and stories about this unique experience at the February potluck program.

March 27, 2015—Cycle Touring

Cycle Touring: You never know what's around the corner Two college graduates from Oregon State (Stormy and Todd) set out to explore their country after getting rid of everything they own, except what they would be packing on their bicycles. Thinking they have a degree in one hand and life possibly figured out in the other, their route would include cycling over 20,000 miles in 1.5 years. Hotels and restaurants were not on the itinerary, but instead, gaining experiential learning and testing their desire to explore United States was within their budget. Come listen to their story and how the trip turned out; it didn't end like a fairy tale, but that's because these two authors are not done writing!

April 24, 2015—John Muir Trail

Bob Welch will talk about his backpacking trip on the John Muir Trail.

May 15, 2015—Climbing in Venezuela

North face of Ptari-tepui in Venezuela, Jan. 21 - Feb.9 with Maikey Lopera, Federico Pisani, Ivan Calderon and Manuel Escobar. On January 21 a 4-man team departed Caracas, Venezuela with the goal of exploring and climbing the remote Ptari Tepui in the Guyana (Guiana) highlands of Southern Venezuela. Three days drive across half of the country placed us at the village of Kavanayen where we met our guides and porters. Three more days of jungle trek got us at the base of the unexplored north face of Ptari-tepui. Although this is the “dry season” for tepui climbing, conditions on this face were extremely cloudy, windy and wet. With an elusive summit and running out of time we established an 8-pitch route (sans summit) during the next 10 days. It was truly a magical and wet experience in the depths of the Guiana jungle!

June 26, 2015—Vietnam and Cambodia

Travelling in Vietnam and Cambodia: nose to nose with culture, history and cuisine by Maryanne Reiter In February of 2015 four friends took a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia; travelling from North Vietnam down to central Vietnam and then over to northern Cambodia. While I was growing up Vietnam was a war and Cambodia was a violent regime. I wanted to see those places as countries and people. We set up a private tour where we met guides along the way who helped us with our adventures in trekking, boating, sight-seeing and delving deeper into the local history and customs.

September 25, 2015—Trekking In Ecuador and India

Jorry Rolfe and Randy Sinnott will present "Trekking In Ecuador and India: 2 trails + 2 hikers".

October 23, 2015—The Long Ride Home

After living abroad for 11 years, Melissa Pritchard biked home solo for 21,000 miles – 27 countries and 4 continents in 14 months, through rain forests, deserts, alpine mountains, and coastlines. Passionate about her career as a teacher, she also visited 50+ schools to work with students. The trip showed her that life on the road is always an adventure!

November 20, 2015—Overland Across Eurasia

Overland Across Eurasia: Amsterdam to Hong Kong - Last year, David Schroeder and Deanna Campbell traveled around the world together, along the way following ancient trade routes and high mountain places -- the Silk Road, the Balkans, and China. Their travelogue includes crossing the Caspian Sea by cargo ship, difficult border crossings in Uzbekistan and China, and making new friends in the High Pamirs of Tajikistan's GBAO.

January 24, 2014—Bill Sullivan

February 28, 2014—Everest Base Camp

Feb. 28th is Buzz Blumm talking about his trek to Everest Basecamp.

March 28, 2014—Hiking in England

March 28th Cal and Doris Pulis will be talking about hiking in England.

April 25, 2014—Summer Camp Rally

Strawberry Mountains Summer Camp Rally

May 30, 2014—Trip Thru Scotland

May 30th will be Judy Sinnott talking about a Trip Through Scotland.

June 27, 2014—Oregon Coast Trail

Don Colgan and Connie Soper-- Hiking the Oregon Coast Trail.

September 26, 2014—Bicycling in Cuba

Mike Wolf--Bicycling in Cuba

October 24, 2014—Great Rift Valley

Diana Richardson--Proper Walk, a 150 mile ten day walk through the Great Rift Valley in Eastern Africa. The walk serves as a way to raise money for the Makindu Children's Center which serves the "nutitional, educational, medical and emotional needs of 18,000 orphans and vulnerable children in Kenya."

November 14, 2014—Hiking San Juan Islands

Craig Romano--Hiking in Washington's San Juan Islands.

January 25, 2013—New OR Cascades Hikes - Sullivan

AUTHOR AND HIKING GURU WILLIAM L. SULLIVAN takes us on a dozen new trails he discovered in the area between Salem and Bend while researching the newly released fourth edition of his guidebook, 100 Hikes in the Central Oregon Cascades. Included are paths to a warm springs near Oakridge, a lake with a reflection of South Sister, and a wildflower meadow at Mt. Jefferson. Along the way, expect anecdotes about local history, wildflowers, and outdoor lore. Sullivan is the author of three novels and a dozen books about Oregon, including the popular 100 Hikes series, Oregon Trips & Trails, Hiking Oregon’s History, and Oregon Favorites. His journal of a 1,000-mile hike he took across Oregon, Listening for Coyote, was chosen by the Oregon Cultural Heritage Commission as one of Oregon’s 100 Books, the one hundred most significant books in the state’s history.

February 22, 2013—Walking Tours of England - Jim Duncan

WALKING THE ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE Hiking in England is a different kind of adventure. Your route on “public footpaths” often takes you across grassy sheep meadows, barnyards or through cultivated fields. You may encounter the remains of an ancient Roman road, or walk on medieval paths in the footsteps of 11th century monks. It’s not unusual to come upon a castle or the remains of an old abbey, and occasionally, petroglyphs or hillside chalk carvings from the Bronze Age. Along the way, you may visit a tin mine, come across the home of a famous author or see a church door that inspired J R R Tolkien, and end up in a quaint English village where a pint of ale at the local pub brings the day’s activities to a glorious end! Jim Duncan will talk about two Elderhostel hiking trips he and Sharon have taken to England. The first was to the rugged hills of the Lake District, perhaps the most beautiful area of England, and the North Yorkshire Moors National Park, where they hiked over heather-covered moors and along the North Sea Coast on the Cleveland Way. On the second trip in September 2011, accompanied by Kathy Hoeg, they hiked in the picturesque Cotswolds region dotted with historic villages such as Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold, then traveled down to the southwestern corner of England to hike the rugged coastline of Cornwall, home of the King Arthur legend (and the Doc Martin television series).

March 22, 2013—The State of Determination - Aaron Nicholson

A Self-contained Journey Across Oregon In summer of 2008, Aaron J. Nicholson set out to complete the unthinkable: a 460-mile solo backpacking trip across the State of Oregon without resupplying food or gear. Carrying an immensely heavy pack containing an unappetizing variety of calorie-rich foods, he started his quest at the California border and trekked north on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, determined to reach the Columbia River. But could it be done? Did he possess the resolve and stamina necessary to achieve his one-pack goal? Or would he succumb to exhaustion or the forces of nature? His book, The State of Determination, chronicles Nicholson's careful planning and execution of the journey, as well as his unforgettable adventures on the trail.

April 26, 2013—Summer Camp Rally

Info about Camp Lana to be held in the Trinity Alps July 8-13.

May 17, 2013—Astoria to Bar Harbor by bike

Lyn Gilman-Garrick will be presenting Thoughts From the Open Road-Astoria to Bar Harbor by Bicycle

June 28, 2013—A Trip to Patagonia - Lana Lindstrom

September 27, 2013—Cascade Summer - Bob Welch

Bob Welch will deliver the tale of his 452-mile hike in the Cascade Range, from the California border to the Washington border. Between bugs and blisters, he contemplates Judge John Waldo, who hiked these same stretches more than a century ago and fought to have the Cascade Range set off as public land.

October 25, 2013—Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Doug Crispin a retired Park Ranger will be speaking about Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

November 22, 2013—Erin McKittrick: Alaska

Erin McKittrick: Small Feet, Big Land, Adventure, Home and Family on the Edge of Alaska.

January 27, 2012—Favorite Oregon Hikes & Adventures - Sullivan

Oregon hiking guru Bill Sullivan will take us on a tour of his favorite trips -- hikes and adventures in all parts of the state, choosing top trips for each month of the year. Based on his new book, Oregon Favorites, the presentation includes tips on new trails, as well as anecdotes about history, geology, wildlife, and people along the way. A fifth-generation Oregonian, Sullivan has written seven books about Oregon’s outdoors, as well as two books on Oregon history, two adventure memoirs, and three novels. His journal, Listening for Coyote was chosen by the Oregon Cultural Heritage Commission as one of the 100 most significant books in the state’s history. Bill is a perennial favorite, and his presentations are always enjoyable and informative.

February 24, 2012—Greg Vaughn

Wandering throughout the Pacific Northwest for over twenty years, Eugene photographer Greg Vaughn has been combining his love of travel and nature with photography, and he will share his images and discoveries with us. He will take us on a photographic tour of Oregon, highlighting the best of the natural wonders of our state. Along the way, Greg will offer tips and instructions on how to improve your own photographic efforts on your travels. Greg is the author and photographer of the travel guidebook, Photographing Oregon, which was named Best Travel Book of 2009 by the Independent Book Publishers Association.

March 30, 2012—Washington Trail Guide - Craig Romano

Think there are limits to what we can do in our fifties? Think again, and come hear Craig Romano tell us about the challenges he undertakes in his fifties. From Mt. Vernon, WA, Craig is an avid hiker, runner, kayaker, and cyclist. For his fiftieth birthday last year, he ran a fifty-mile marathon. He is the author of several books on hiking in the Northwest including Best Hikes With Dogs, Inland Northwest, Day Hiking: Central Cascades, and Backpacking Washington. Our speaker will also tell us about some hiking near Mt. Baker, the site of this year’s summer camp.

April 27, 2012—Summer Camp 2012 - Lana Lindstrom

If you’ve signed up for Summer Camp in the Mt. Baker, Washington area, plan on attending the Rally, Friday, April 28. We’ll show slides of the Excelsior Group campground, the beautiful surrounding area, and some of the best hikes. We’ll also share tips of what to bring, whet your appetite with meal descriptions, and discuss chore responsibilities. If you haven’t gone camping with us before, this will be a great opportunity to learn how we do it. If you’re an old hand, please come to share your stories and get inspired to dust off your gear.

May 18, 2012—Africa - Chris Stockdale

Last fall, Obsidian Chris Stockdale headed for Kenya and South Africa with adventure in mind. She first did a strenuous climb up to Pt. Lenana at 16,355 feet on Mt. Kenya. The climb up Mt. Kenya is considered harder than the longer climb up Kilimanjaro, even though the elevation is lower. Chris has climbed both and agrees with that sentiment, but attributes part of it to the fact that 30 years have elapsed since she climbed Kilimanjaro. The next adventure of this trip was a 6-day trek into the Drakensberg Mountains in the southeastern part of South Africa. The trek was supported by five Zulu porters, was led by a white South African, and traversed magnificent stretches of the mountains. The only other human beings sighted during this whole time were two Basuto people heading back to their village . . . and they were way off in the distance. Plentiful bird life and wildflowers along with spectacular scenery made this an unforgettable journey.

June 22, 2012—Sustainable Enlightenment - Doug McCarty

Author and Obsidian Douglas McCarty will discuss his book, Sustainable Enlightenment: Einstein’s Razor: Seven Simple Steps to Awakening. Einstein said, “Make everything as simple as possible, but no simpler.” Finding connection, meaning and purpose in life should be as simple (and sustainable) as possible, but no simpler. This should be achieved as soon as possible, and maintained throughout life. The simple truth is, enlightenment or awakening is literally at your fingertips and taste buds every waking hour of every day. Buddhism’s Noble Eightfold Path begins with Correct Perception, and correct (untainted, unfettered) perception is the heavy lifting of attaining awareness: and once you have achieved this simple goal, the rest is almost an after note. Perception leads to a deep and abiding awareness of the suchness of the physical world, a central concept in eastern thought. Understanding the suchness of the perceivable world, its fractal geometry and chaotic nature, is the very first step to a life of enlightenment. Copies of Sustainable Enlightenment will be available for purchase after the talk, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Obsidians.

September 28, 2012—Who are the Obsidians?

Welcome! Obsidians in Action on Trails, Roads, Water and Mountains Enjoy a media presentation featuring Obsidian activities of 2011-2012, including Summer Camp. Janet Jacobsen has compiled photographers’ photos and will narrate the program. Come see what you missed or see yourself in action.

October 26, 2012—Grand Teton NP - Doug Crispin

November 16, 2012—Climbing in the Cascades

Margaret and Richard will show their photos of the September 2010 Grand Canyon 13 day trip and their Rim-to-Rim hike. Learn about geology, reservation tips, and how to really enjoy and soak up the spectacular views and colors. The average visit to the Park is about 3 hours or less, some sources say 15 minutes. This program is for those who want to know more about our natural wonder.

Come early for the 5:30 pre-dinner social. There will be special badges for anyone who has visited or hiked the Grand Canyon. This is an opportunity for members and guests to share their Grand Canyon experiences.

PLEASE NOTE THE DATE IS MAY 15TH

Please join in the experience.

Friday, March 18, 2005. Lana Lindstrom and Richard Hughes spent a month exploring the beautiful island of Cyprus. It’s a European vacation hot spot, but few Americans travel there. It’s a divided island—Greek on one side and Turkish on the other, but the food is the same—just with different names! There are lots of hiking and kayaking opportunities; ancient ruins abound.

Richard and Lana also took 2 mini-cruises; one to Cairo to see the pyramids and the other to Beirut and Syria. It was very interesting to be an American in this part of the world at this time. Please join them on a tour of the highlights of their vacation.

A fifth-generation Oregonian, Sullivan has hiked every significant trail in the state, collecting information, photographs, and anecdotes for ten books, including, “Listening for Coyote,” “Hiking Oregon’s History,” and a popular “100 Hikes” series. In his new book — and his slide show — he reveals some of this favorite getaways, with tips on where to stay and what to see.

Russ and Blyth currently lead tours to Bhutan, focusing on the remarkable culture of this unique and independent Buddhist kingdom. Be sure you don’t miss this unique presentation.

Friday, January 25, 2002 Alan Coons. Alan returned to Vietnam as a civilian with a bicycle in 2001. He will show slides of his 500 mile, twenty-eight day bicycle tour and speak of the surprises and changes that have taken place since he last survived the experience.

Friday, February 22, 2002 Dave Preedeck and Alan Blanchard. The Best of the Alps from a trip taken with a small group from the University of Oregon in the summer of 2001. This hardy group hiked through snow in July to explore and climb the Alps.

Friday, March 22, 2002 Chuck and Sandy Reul. "Biking in the Loire and Hiking in the Dolomites." This September Sandy and Chuck traveled with Headwater, a British `soft adventure' company. An eight day self-guided bike trip of 30-50 miles per day followed by a week in the Dolomite mountain range in northern Italy for daily guided hikes.

Friday, April 26, 2002 Obsidian Summer Camp Rally Come and learn about Summer Camp 2002. View the maps, learn about hikes, meet others who will be going to camp. A great opportunity to see if you would be interested in a week long camp adventure with the Obsidians at a very reasonable cost.

Friday, May 24, 2002 Rick Ahrens Peru, the Amazon and the Highlands (Cuzco and Macchu Picchu) were the destination for Rick this past year. His commentary and slides will offer unusual views and perspectives of this richly historical and physically challenging region.

Friday, June 28, 2002 Neil VanSteenbergen. We have all read about the group who traveled by bicycle around the world for the entire year of 2000. Neil was one of the hardy who pedaled the entire adventure. Slides and commentary will offer us an "armchair traveler" experience.

Friday, November 22, 2002 Trails expert William L. Sullivan, now an Obsidian member, presents a slide show tour of the new trips and trails he discovered while researching the newly released second edition of his book, 100 Hikes/Travel Guide: Oregon Coast & Coast Range. Come explore an abandoned fort at a Lewis and Clark campsite, a backdoor path to the states most photographed lighthouse, and a new river that meanders 10 miles through coastal dunes. Sullivan spices the show with tips on local geology, history, flowers, and wildlife along the way.

A fifth-generation Oregonian, Sullivan has written nine books about the state, including five titles in his popular 100 Hikes series. Other recent works include Hiking Oregon's History, a historical novel entitled "A Deeper Wild", and a new edition of "Listening for Coyote", the journal of Sullivan's 1,361-mile solo backpacking trek across Oregon in 1985.

Friday, December 20, 2002 Roger Bailey. A slide show highlighting hut to hut ski touring in Norway!

"Americans are out of shape, can't ski, and know nothing of world geography" so stated the Norwegian cabbie, no doubt born with skis on. Our mission thusly set, prove to the incredibly fit capably Norwegians that we in fact could ski, we set off down the road.

In the spring of 2001 Roger Bailey and Annie Dochnahl were invited to visit and ski with two other Eugene residents, Kari Norgaard and Salm Stroich. Salm and Kari were living in Voss for a year, a town in south, central Norway. Kari was doing research for her sociology dissertation and Salm ski patrolled on the local mountain. Their experiences and observations added the cultural spice to an amazing ski journey. For eight days the foursome toured across frozen lakes, navigated over mountain passes, skied off peaks and enjoyed the comfort of club-managed (hey Obsidians here's an idea) mountain huts. If you ski tour, telemark, snowshoe or hike this slide show will get you inspired for the season.

Roger Bailey is the Outdoor Program Supervisor for the City of Eugene and a veteran Nordic ski instructor. He was relieved to not only keep up with the Norwegians, but actually pass two. Never mind that the Norwegians carried cast iron skillets and were on their third smoke break.