| Summer Trips include any human-powered ventures into our outdoor environment. Our hikes can vary from easy afternoon urban walks to strenuous hikes and overnight backpacks. We hike the trails through deep forest or across lava beds, visit wilderness lakes, climb up rocky crags to high promontories, saunter along ocean beaches, camp near glacier-fed torrents, or stand in admiration of flower-filled mountain meadows. We enjoy bicycle rides ranging from leisurely trips along winding country roads to workouts like 50-mile-plus rides over mountain passes. For boaters, we offer kayak, canoe, and rafting trips on both calm and wild water. From the time of spring blooms to the breakout of fall colors, our aim is to offer a wide variety of opportunities to take an active part in experiencing the wonders around us. |
SUMMER
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2010
Summer Trips Schedule
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| Hikes | Bike Trips | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dist (Mi) | Elev (Ft) | Dist (Mi) | Elev (Ft) | |
| Easy | ≤ 5 | ≤ 1000 | ≤ 20 | ≤ 1000 |
| Moderate | > 5 | > 1000 | > 20 | > 1000 |
| < 10 | < 2500 | < 40 | < 2500 | |
| Difficult | ≥ 10 | ≥ 2500 | ≥ 40 | ≥ 2500 |
The 10 Essentials, what you should
have with you on hikes to be prepared for emergencies.
Are You Prepared For
An Obsidian Trip? 
Trip Tips
Archive 2001 Schedule Archive 2002 Schedule Archive 2003 Schedule Archive 2004 Schedule Archive 2005 Schedule Archive 2006 Schedule Archive 2007 Schedule Archive 2008 Schedule Archive 2009 Schedule
Sign up to go on Summer Trips at the Eugene YMCA, 2055 Patterson Street
Questions about Summer Trips?
Contact Brian Hamilton - 541-343-6550 or Scott Hovis - 541-345-7788 - summertrips@obsidians.org
Trip Sampler
Barb Revere has looked over upcoming trips and selected an attractive sampling for special mention. If you are leading a trip and would like us to know why you think it will offer something special, email us:
Fri. May 14 — Sweet Creek Falls — Hike, easy. Tumbling in the coastal mountains near Mapleton, Sweet Creek offers a 2.5-mile amble, with almost continuous waterfalls, rapids and cascades. This scenic canyon stays green year round, but spring run-off provides the loudest roar. Catwalks, built out over the creek, provide a whitewater emersion experience and you’ll see why this is a favorite of many Obsidians. Led by Joella Ewing.
Sat., May 15 — Heceta Head — Hike, moderate. This very popular coast trail has much to offer: beach, creek and headland climb. The headland holds the most scenic and most photographed lighthouse on the Oregon coast and is framed by two of our loveliest beaches, Washburne and Devil’s Elbow. Led by Pat Soussan. 7mi., 400ft.
Sun., May 16 — Fall Creek — Bike, moderate. The air will be crisp, the foliage bright and the road relatively flat, as you roll along the road beside the creek that fills Fall Creek Reservoir. Join leader Stewart Hoeg for this ride and a picnic creek side. 38 mi.
Same Day (May 16) — Kentucky Falls — Hike, easy. ‘Tis the season to go looking for American dippers and bask in the spray of the two waterfalls that come together at trail’s end and lunch spot. There are three beautiful waterfalls in all, deep ferny canyons and wildflowers to provide the oohs and ahhs on this yearly favorite. Led by Joanne Ledet. 4.4mi, 800ft.
Sun., May 30 — Aufderheide Drive — Bike, difficult. According to leaders Sue Wolling and Sam Miller, “This ride begins with a tour along Cougar Reservoir and then parallels the east fork of the McKenzie River. There are trees-a-plenty along this route and the road surface is excellent.” 50mi., 2700ft.
Same day (May 30) — Clear Lake — Hike, moderate. This hike is on everyone’s favorites list and with good reason. The wildflowers are plentiful and Cascade views are spectacular. The lake and Big Spring reflect the most awesome blues and greens, and offer great spots to pause for a few moments to contemplate nature at its finest. Led by Barb Revere. 5mi., 200ft.
Thurs., June 3 — Mary’s Peak — Hike, moderate. Leader Dan Christensen hikes up the north side of this landmark and highest peak in the Coast Range. On a clear day, the view on top includes: to the east, most of the Oregon Cascade range, and to the west, the shining Pacific Ocean.
Sat., Jun. 5 — Old McKenzie Highway — Bike, difficult. It’s a tough climb, but somebody’s got to do it – so why not you? Join leaders Sue Wolling and Sam Miller on this ride up the west side of highway 242 while it is open to boots and bikes, but not to cars. According to Sam, “The route begins under a canopy of trees and progresses uphill towards terrific views of the Three Sisters. This is a premium ride.” No cars, no horns, no curses, no sweat! 47mi., 3700ft.
Trip Tips
Before you leave home, let others know where you are headed and your expected return time.
Hiking conditions of any trail can vary with the weather and the seasons. Wear appropriate footgear and consider carrying extra clothing suitable for rain and cold weather.
A Northwest Forest Pass is required at many major trailheads in the Willamette and Deschutes National Forests. Some State Parks have their own permit system.
If you become lost, stay put and keep warm.
Day hikers should bring all the after they will need—at least a quart per person. Some hikes and weather conditions require more (32 oz. for shorter hikes, 64 oz. or more for all day outings.) Leave extra water in your car for your return.
Bring extra energy-boosting trail snacks such as energy bars, crackers, dried fruit, candy bars.