What we’re about
Main Meetup Events Calendar http://www.socialfundation.com
Group focused on hot springs, public and commercial, secret and not-so-secret, day trips, overnights, road trips, backpacking, spa retreats, anything to do with enjoying hot water..:-) We will also be doing swimming hikes in the summer, backpacking trips in the warmer months, and snow-oriented trips in the winter. So anything to do with water whether it's hot, cold, or frozen..;-)
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Featured International Meetup Trips for 2025 & 2026Link visible for attendees
This group has some great local outdoorsy/adventure events.
As the main group leads for the group we do have some more involved adventures that take more planning than your average weekend hike or camping trip.
These are treks or adventure trips to epic places around the world.
Bucket List Experiences if you will.Here is what's ahead:
Aug 10-20, 2025 EPIC MACHU PICCHU! vis Short Inca Trail or Train!!
Aug 10-20, 2025 The Salkantay Trek EPIC MACHU PICCHU!
Oct 12-23, 2025 Jordan: Dana to Petra Trek with bonus of Wadi Rum
Jun 05-14, 2026 Costa Rica Eco Adventure
Jun 18-27, 2026 Mt Kilimanjaro Trek! One of the 7 Summits
Jul 05-14, 2026 Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
Mar 06-16, 2027 Galapagos Islands Expedition
Apr 25-May 11, 2027 Everest Base Camp Yoga TrekWe have other overseas events, which are not that adventurous, but more refined and cultural.
How to learn more about the itinerary and prices?
What to do next?
How to attend?
What to pack?
What's included and not included?
Or any question you might have!!!You can send a direct meetup message:
https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881In your message say which one and we can get the ball rolling from there and get you info.
The other easy way is to fill out our form. You can check-box several events that way.
https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8ALSO . . .
We have a monthly Q & A video conference call to answer it all!
Rsvp on this event and join us on the listed date at 6pm Pacific time.
Here is the link to join https://meet.google.com/irp-rnyi-fgbRSVP here and we will send you a reminder too!!
What's that? You want to see what the events look like?
pix Pix PIX . . . everybody lives pix!! Here are some galleries of past Treks
Everest Base Camp Trek Photo Album
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jtHi3tTjVhYGjtc19
Machu Picchu Salkantay Trek Photo Album
https://photos.app.goo.gl/1cveVTS54VkziKba6
Kilimanjaro Trek Photo Album
https://photos.app.goo.gl/xxemRMegDqTHHi4UA
Galapagos https://photos.app.goo.gl/chQ3swWt4jGiAabx5Take a look at the pix. Send us a note. Fill out the event form. RSVP here . . . whatever!! Get the ball rolling on your next adventure. Come and join us!!
The posted date and time of this event is a zoom call.
Here is the video call link to join https://meet.google.com/irp-rnyi-fgb - The Salkantay Trek EPIC MACHU PICCHU! Experience wild Peru...Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Oakland-Airport, Oakland, CA
Discover the awe-inspiring journey to Machu Picchu with our three distinct options, each offering its own charm and adventure. As a Meetup, we travel as a group and still are able to tailor your Machu Picchu adventure according to your preferences and interests.
This event is for the hikers and trekkers, interested in The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. This is a 4-Day hike on the ancient and remote footpath located in the same region as the Inca Trail where massive snow-capped mountains collide with lush tropical rainforests. It is less travelled than the Inca Trail, with breathtaking vistas! Considered by many the better alternate to get to Machu Picchu. It is also not that heavily regulated with government taxes and fees. Hence, the good price!
The Inca Trail is the "tourist" route. We are doing the 1-day hike, which is the second half of the classic Inca Trek and a full day at Machu Picchu. It is shorter and less difficult than the Salkantay. The views are stunning - mostly rainforest canopy and ancient historic sights. Those who are interested in this way to reach Machu Picchu, CLICK HERE to find the event.
The Train is just as it sounds. No long hike. Travel by rail and with less effort. This is intended for people with less mobility or those who wish to glamp it a bit. They will be traveling with the Inca Trail group, but instead of hiking for one full day, can opt for the convenience of the train ride. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
Peru is an amazing place with many unbelievable surprises. We are sampling a little bit of everything - from the tall peaks of the Andes, to the majestic Inca ruins, to the Peruvian Jungle and not to forget...the famous Peruvian food and the pisco sour!!! This is a trip of a lifetime indeed!
Come enjoy this beautiful country the way you want. Visit Lima, the capital and sample some of the most famous fusion cuisine. Visit Cusco, the religious and administrative capital of the Inca Empire. Learn about the history of the Inca people and their amazing accomplishments. Then enjoy a stunning 4-day hike on the Salkantay Trail, culminating with a full day spent at Machu Picchu!
Machu Picchu via Salkantay Trail
Price per person for the land portion $2495, Double occupancy (Share)
Single Supplement (Hotels only, share during trek) $370
Secure Deposit Link for Salkantay Trail $251
***Airfare not included***RSVP to receive detailed Day-by-Day itinerary. If you wish to attend, deposit is the only way to secure your spot. Upon paying the deposit, please fill out this Participant's Form.
The deposit is refundable up to 90 day before departure.INCLUDED:
- Hotels in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes.
- Emergency Insurance during Salkantay Trek portions
- Guided Sightseeing Tours in Lima and Cusco
- Breakfast Daily
- Welcome Dinner in Cusco
- Farewell dinner in Aguas Calientes after the trek
- All Meals during the Trek
- Hotel/Airport Transfers
- Porters and Professional Guides during the trek
Not Included
- International and domestic airfare
- Any other meals not stated
- Gratuities and personal expenses.
- Travel Insurance when not on the Trek portion (we can give you a quote for that)
This event is posted to several groups. The number of RSVP does not reflect the actual number of participants. CLICK HERE for the main/central post.
If you need information on this or any of our other international events**FILL OUT OUR GOOGLE FORM **
Got Questions?
Specifics about Salkantay Trek . . . Message to Marc
(Marc-screen name Oddie) https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881
All things flights and sign ups message to Anna
https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062OR . . . .
We do a monthly Travel Q&A Zoom. CLICK HERE to RSVP for our monthly A & A Zoom
Come to the zoom, ask questions, meet others attending, be social.CLICK HERE to join in and see all our other events
SOT 2000318-10
- Hot Springs Hop AND Fall Colors . . . Eastern Sierra Camping & Fun..Needs location
Did somebody say Hot Springs?
YES. A Hot Springs Adventure indeed!!
This event is: Fall Colors extravaganza AND Hot Springs Soaks.
Autumn and Fall Colors is really an east coast thing . . . EXCEPT for the Eastern Sierra. Nowhere else in California does the foliage explode in color like this.
The Quaking Aspens and the Cottonwoods turn and it is glorious.Take a look at pix from past times we have gone https://photos.app.goo.gl/4H8pH2uSezGKoH1h8
For the Fall Colors portion we will be driving to all the best spots (and short short photo hikes. OR you can choose to hike up Lundy Canyon (Easy Hike) and have a more intimate exploration.
On the way to the prime fall colors spots we will be making our way to the local natural mineral hot springs. The autumn temps will make it perfect for a series of Hot Springs dips.
FALL COLORS
&
HOT SPRINGS HOPOne event and we get TWO amazing adventures.
Likely Saturday:
(for Fall Colors)- Lundy Lake
- Virginia Lake
- Green Creek
- Twin Lakes
- Lobdell Lake
(for Hot Springs and other sites)
- Buckeye Hot Springs
- Travertine Hot Springs
- The Hot Spring
- Bodie
- Mono Tufa or Mono Fissures more Mono
Likely Sunday:
(for Fall Colors)- June Lake Loop
- Convict Lake
- McGee Creek
- Round Valley
- Lake Sabrina
( For Hot Springs and other sites)
- Layton Springs
- Hot Creek
- Shepherd
- Rock Hot Tub
- Crab Cooker
- Hilltop Hot Tub (aka Pulky's Pool)
- Wild Willys and more Willy's
- Crowley Columns and more Crowley
- Keogh Hot Ditch (the free one)
- Keogh Hot Springs
Bonuses if time:
- Benton Hot Springs
- Red Canyon Petroglyphs
(The Yosemite Option)
If you are leaving Sunday or on Monday)
Drive home via 120 to thru Tuolumne Meadows to Valley Floor then down the 41 (if to SoCal) or 140 (if to Bay Area).
Sure . . . . It adds a few hours. But you get to see Yosemite High Country and Valley Floor.We have done the Hot Springs Hop AND the Fall Colors before on the group as SEPRATE events. We are combining for more fun and adventure and value.
To Attend This Event:
- RSVP with the red RSVP button
- Make a payment https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/RV9WNP8VGUDN2 Cost is Per Person. Kids under 18 are 1/2. Dogs are free.
- Click and fill out our Attendees OR Interest Form https://forms.gle/7LktppE3Uqo67XSs5
RSVP alone does not save your spot. Our events always fill. Don't wait.
Includes:
- Three nights camping / Four Days
- Firewood or charcoal or propane fire pits.
- Flush restrooms
- Hot Showers available
- Fresh Made Lattes or Americanos at our site
- Perfect for the beginner and first timers.
- Most come solo - - - Come alone and leave with friends.
Gear: The only specialized gear you need is Tent, Sleeping bag, Sleeping Pad (yoga mat). Everything else is household items you already have.
This is Tent camping. No RV. No Trailers. No giant campervans.Food: You bring your own food. This way you know your allergies or diet needs. You are also able to prepare and eat at times convenient to you.
There will be communal fire pits to use for cooking in the evening. Bring any cooking gear or stoves you wish.
Restaurant, grocery store, and convenience store are short walking distance. So you can make it super civilized camping.
Location? Exact info goes out only to confirmed attendees. It goes out with all the finalized event info. We don't want crashers, ex's or stalkers "just showing up." Also . . . this event will fill. People "just showing up" hoping there is an extra space will result in them being in your place. That's a big bummer.
If you wish to attend . . . do these three things:
- RSVP here.
- Make a payment https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/RV9WNP8VGUDN2
- Fill out Attendees Form https://forms.gle/7LktppE3Uqo67XSs5
Refunds or Cancel?
- Refunds given if cancel is made more than two weeks in advance of the event start date/time.
- IF less than two weeks notice of cancel 100% credit is given towards a future event. Credits do not expire.
- General Policies
Questions?
CLICK HERE to send a Direct MessageMore Questions?
CLICK HERE for our monthly Q & A CAMPING Zoom.Q: I'm a first-timer or newbie? Is this event a good first event or good for inexperienced?
A: Yes. Perfect if less experienced. It's easy camping and easy hikes.What do I need?
Newbie Camping Advice All things GEAR
Newbie Camping Advice All things FOODCarpools?
Yes there are carpools. They are encouraged but not required. Save gas and money and emissions.
Carpool Matrix available to confirmed attendees only.
Our Carpool infoElectric Cars?
There is a charge station across the street.Dogs?
Dogs OK on trail and in campsite. Must be on leash.Kids?
Kids ok on trail and in campsite. Leash is optional.Kids under 18 are 1/2 cost. (message for a separate link)
Dogs are free no matter what age.Fun? No matter your age or species . . . you will have fun. Adults of all ages are welcome too!!
Click Here for the main group where posted.
CLICK HERE to join in on the other fun events planned.Notice: We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, age, disability, gender, gender preference, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, national identity, marital status, familial status, religion, political beliefs or even for belly button lint.
We welcome all, . . . and that includes you!!
- The Dana to Petra Trek w/ bonus of Wadi Rum. A Jordan Discovery AdventureSFO AIRPORT, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Our Meetup group is off on another thrilling hiking adventure to exotic faraway lands! This time, we are trekking in Jordan, where breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs, narrow gorges, and vast plains unfold against the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley.
The Dana to Petra trek, also known as the Dana Wadi Trail, is one of Jordan's most renowned hiking experiences. It takes us through a diverse range of landscapes, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural encounters.
The trek begins from Dana village, a charming and ancient small town, known for its stone houses and traditional architecture. It is located in Jordan's largest nature reserve - Dana, which also gives the name of the trek. The Dana Trail spans a variety of ecosystems, from lush woodlands to arid desert.
In addition to the amazing hiking experience, our Meetup trip provides a unique cultural exposure. We will have the opportunity to interact with local Bedouin communities and even stay in a Bedouin camp, experiencing their hospitality, traditional food, and way of life.
The trek culminates in the ancient city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Entering Petra from the "backdoor" via the Monastery (Ad Deir) is a unique experience, offering a less crowded approach to this iconic archaeological site.
The actual trek from Dana to Petra covers approximately 50 miles and it will take us 6 days. The trek is considered moderately challenging, with some sections requiring good physical fitness due to rugged terrain and long distances.
The whole trip, however, is 12 days as we are spending some time sightseeing and visiting some of the amazing tourist spots of Jordan. In addition to Petra we will see Amman, Madaba, Mt Nebo, Dead Sea and Aqaba at the Red Sea.
Limited size to 24 attendees total. This trip will fill up extremely quickly.
Price per person, double occupancy: $3990
(we match roommates)
Single Supplement $710 or total price for a solo accommodation: $4700
The only way to secure your spot is a $350 deposit
Click Here for Secure Deposit LinkDeposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).
Click Here and Fill out this Form if you are making a Deposit******Airfare from/to the US is not included********
Message direct to Anna (flights and itinerary)
Message Direct to Marc (trekking and trip information)Inclusions:
· Meet & assist at Amman International Airport and arrival and departure transfers
· 10 Nights accommodation at hotels and camping sites
· Meals as described in the itinerary
· Transportation except during the hike
· Entrance fees as per the program
· Professional Archaeological Licensed English-Speaking Guide through all touring days only
· Professional Licensed English-Speaking Hiking Guide during hiking days (6 days: day 3 – day 8)
· 6 Full day Camping equipment, such as tent, mattress, blankets, water, bathroom, showers, 3 meals a day, luggage transfers
· Bottled water every throughout all days
· 3 hours tour in Wadi Rum by the open Bedouin
· Portage at Airport & Hotels.
· All applicable taxesWe offer a 9-day optional extension to Egypt: Pyramids, Sphinx, Nile cruise & more. CLICK HERE FOR INFO.
For people who are not interested in the hiking option, we have a regular trip (not involving hiking) from Petra to the Pyramids, with Nile Cruise. CLICK HERE FOR THIS OPTION.
Have more questions?
Click here to message Anna
Click here to message Marc
AND/OR
Come to our monthly Q & A Zoom on all international trips we offer. Meet others attending, be social, or come and get any questions answered.
AND/OR
Fill out this form: Click Here for our Overseas Trip Request Form for more info on this or any of our international events.We believe in good decent social. We have a set of sister groups we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too.
Click Here to see all our other eventsSOT 2000318-10
