Laurence Gagnon
Chapter Outings Leader

Cheryl Kim
Chapter Outings Leader

We’ll hike along the San Dieguito County Park Scenic Fitness trail offering 10 workout station stops with view stunning views. This interactive hike is opened to everyone, including children 12 and older accompanied by their guardian. Each station offers three levels of difficulties where you can challenge yourself before our annual picnic. Join us as a family or group of friends to joyfully participate in activities conditioning the whole body. As a bonus, magnificent views are found at each of the stops for those who rather take photos.

Please wear closed toe footwear appropriate for hiking on uneven terrain, sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen), bring water to drink, cell phone or camera to take photos. Hiking poles are optional.

Rating: E2A (easy, roughly 2 miles, less than 500′ elevation gain)
Led by: Laurence Gagnon & Cheryl Kim
Time: 9:00 am
Ages: Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Capacity:  Limited to 12 participants

Starla Rivers
Chapter Outings Leader & Outings Treasurer

Sherman Lambert
Chapter Outings Leader Trainee

We will leave San Dieguito County Park for a short 1 mile drive to the La Orilla Trailhead. This moderate out and back hike features San Elijo Lagoon, one of San Diego’s largest wetlands, consisting of coastal strand, salt marsh, freshwater/brackish marsh, riparian scrub, coastal sage scrub, and mixed chaparral. A wide variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and fish call this estuary home. At the midpoint of the hike, non-claustrophobic souls may opt to hike through Annie’s Canyon Loop featuring narrow slot canyon walls and ladders.

Please wear close toe footwear appropriate for hiking on uneven terrain, sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen), bring water to drink, cell phone or camera to take photos. Hiking poles are optional

Rating: M5A (moderate, roughly 5 miles, less than 500′ elevation gain)
Led by: Starla Rivers
Time: 8:30 am
Ages: Suitable for ages 14 and up (Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Capacity: Limited to 15 participants
Languages: English

Carl Pope
Chapter Outings Leader & Bike Section

Join us for an exhilarating bike ride adventure that promises breathtaking coastal vistas and an invigorating journey through scenic landscapes! We’ll kick off our ride on Lomas Santa Fe, descending a couple of hundred feet for an adrenaline rush. Then, we’ll make a left turn onto San Rodolfo Dr., meandering down to Stevens Ave., where we’ll head south to Via De La Valle.

Our route takes us north along the mesmerizing coast highway, guiding us into charming Cardiff. Along the way, we’ll catch a glimpse of the iconic “Kook.” Next, we’ll navigate Chesterfield to Manchester, leading us to the serene lagoon and the enchanting North Coast Bike Trail.

As we pedal south along the trail, we’ll conquer climbs before ascending Lomas Santa Fe and returning up the hill to our starting point in the park. Don’t miss this incredible cycling journey filled with scenic wonders, adventure, and camaraderie! Join us for a ride to remember!

Check the weather forecast prior to the ride. Bring any necessary emergency medications (such as epi-pen or inhalers), Wear light/bright comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sunscreen and (sun) glasses. Must wear a properly fitted helmet with strap and gloves are recommended. Although this is a short ride, water, a snack, cell phone and ability to replace a flat tube are always recommended.

Rating: 1-BS-PP (13.5 mile ride, rolling hills, social ride that is peppy at 12-14 mph)
Led by: Carl Pope
Time: 9:15 am meet, 9:30 am start
Ages: Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Suitable for ages 12 and up with previous experience riding this distance and speed.
Capacity: Limited to 12 participants
Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/48625219

Amelie Catheline
Qi Gong & Tai Chi Instructor
Qi Gong for Inner Ecology

Co-facilitated class by Amelie Catheline and Park Ranger Alejandro Santos, at San Dieguito County Park to discover meditation & Qi Gong.
Relax and connect deeply with Mother Nature during this 1-hour class.

Free class. Open to all. No prerequisites needed.

WHAT TO EXPECT: The meditation and Qi Gong exercises are built around a theme that allows for self-reflection and connection of the body and mind with Nature and concepts of spiritual philosophies. All levels are welcome. The emphasis is given on the connection with your inner self. Nature provides wonders from which one can draw new perspectives and understandings about its own nature. A class of self exploration through guided movements and meditation!

WHAT TO BRING: Wear comfortable clothing and bring water. A mat or a towel is highly recommended for seated movements.

Led by: Amelie Catheline & Alejandro Santos
Time: 10:00 am
Ages: Suitable for ages 16 and up (Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Capacity: Limited to 15 participants
Languages: In addition to speaking English, the instructor speaks French.

Dave Hogan
Past Executive Committee Chair

Have you ever wondered about the ecology of the shrubby vegetation that covers the hills of San Diego County? Well, here’s your chance to learn about California’s globally unique chaparral ecosystem and some amazing critters and plants that call it home. Join naturalist (and past-San Diego Sierra Club Executive Committee Chair) Dave Hogan for a walk and talk through the chaparral and sandstone on the trails of San Dieguito Park at Picnic in the Park and Annual Volunteer Awards.

Please wear closed toe footwear appropriate for hiking on uneven terrain, sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen), bring water to drink, notepad & pen if you’d like to take notes, cell phone or camera to take photos.

This hike might not be appropriate for children as they may not find the topic interesting.

Rating: E1A (Easy, 1 mile or less, less than 500 feet elevation gain)
Led by: Dave Hogan
Time: This wall & talk will be offered twice at 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Ages: Suitable for ages 14 and up
Capacity: Limited to 15 participants

Parent/Guardian Supervised Activity

Join us for a creative adventure! Grab your paintbrush and let your imagination run wild as you transform ordinary birdhouses into colorful masterpieces. We’ve got all the supplies including: birdhouses, paint, and brushes you need, so come and make some artful memories with us! 🌈🎨✨

Please practice Leave No Trace and do not place these birdhouses in public spaces for birds to find. Please be responsible and place them in your garden, backyard or inside your home.

Led by: Parent/Guardian Led Activity
Time: Starting at 10:30 am
Ages: Suitable for Children 6 and up (not recommended for children under 3). Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian.
Parents Supervision Required 

Self Led Activity
Children must be supervised by a parent/guardian.

Experience the ultimate blend of outdoor fun and togetherness at Picnic in the Park! Don’t let age limit your enjoyment; everyone can revel in the excitement of playing giant lawn games. From oversized Jenga to Cornhole to Four in a Row, these games offer a fantastic way to connect with friends and family while basking in the beauty of nature. Laughter and friendly competition abound as you strategize, compete, and bond under the open sky. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, these games bring generations together, creating unforgettable memories. So gather your loved ones or a new found friend, and let the games begin!

Led by: Self Led Activity
Time: Starting at 10:00 am
Ages: Suitable for children 6 and up. Children must be supervised by a parent/guardian.
Parents Supervision: Required