Open to backpackers and soon-to-be backpackers of all ability levels, LABC is where L.A. area backpackers can come together for weekend backpacking trips in the surrounding wilderness areas and longer excursions outside Los Angeles. This is not backpack traveling. Our focus is on the outdoors. We're all about backcountry adventure!

*These are NOT guided trips (you have to pay BIG BUCKS for those)!

*There are no "leaders". We're just people who love to backpack and don't mind sharing with others the trips we've planned for ourselves. Conversely, we're not babysitters. All members must have a measure of trail competence and self-reliance.

*There is no instruction. Though we share what we know freely and plan trips together for fun and camaraderie, members are ultimately responsible for educating and equipping themselves.

*If you're trying to break the sound barrier via hiking or backpacking, lol, bring a map and have at it. We'll meet you in camp! =) Don't expect the entire group to move at your pace. I run a fun and relaxed group with NO pressure, NO competition and NO strict regimens. This is a collective, not a dictatorship; each member sets their own pace and schedule.

We primarily backpack spring through fall but as of winter 2009/2010, we became four-season backpackers. So look for a few winter backpacking and/or snow camping trips on the calendar. In the traditional "off-season", we generally post activities such as conditioning hikes, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, day-trips, and car camping. We've even done several eco-volunteerism events such as trail maintenance and tree planting with local nonprofit organizations.

A PHOTO IS REQUIRED FOR MEMBERSHIP: NO APPROVAL WITHOUT ONE. We aren't concerned about your looks: we care about our safety. Deleting the photo once approved will prevent you from being able to RSVP for events. The same is true for altering your approved profile to one that is unacceptable, i.e. using a false name with a non-personal photo.

If your schedule doesn't allow for the overnight trip, you're welcome do the event as a day hike so that you have the opportunity to meet other members.

Please read the disclaimer posted in the "About Us" section (link located on the left-hand side of this page). BY REQUESTING MEMBERSHIP AND SIGNING UP FOR AN EVENT, YOU ARE ACKNOWLEDGING THAT YOU HAVE READ THE DISCLAIMER AND AGREE TO THE WAIVER.