Backpacking Los Angeles
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Meetup on Orient Express. Autumn in Paris Venice Prague Vienna Budapest Istanbul
Mon, Sep 21, 2:00 AMThe Orient Express. . . you heard about it many times. The romance, the mystery, the adventure! Of course - the opulence too! ***While the original Orient Express train is now part of history, our journey revives its spirit—crossing Europe from Paris to Istanbul, echoing the legendary route that once defined luxury rail travel.*** This experience brings back the magic of the rails—without the inflated cost of old-world extravagance. Instead, we focus on service, comfort, and contemporary refinement, blending iconic train travel with thoughtfully curated experiences. We retrace the route of the original Orient Express using a mix of **modern night trains, high-speed day trains, and select short flights**, creating a seamless and unforgettable journey. Our route takes us to: Paris → Venice → Vienna → Prague → Budapest → Istanbul Included: * Train transportation between 4 cities. * 2 nights on an actual night train with sleeping compartment * Air transportation Paris / Venice and Budapest / Istanbul * 11 nights in First Class hotels with best central locations * Daily breakfast + select lunches and dinners * All transfers (hotels, train stations, airports) * Guided tours in every city * Entrances to many museums. * And more thoughtful touches throughout the journey We travel as a group, and also have the flexibility of hop-on, hop-off tours and museum passes with "skip the line" so you can enjoy complete independence. The trip is designed for curious, like-minded travelers who value both freedom and shared experiences. It is all included in the price! You are free to do your own thing, cater to your special interests, visit other sights and locations in the cities, while still being guided and helped with all the arrangements. A balance of independence when you want it and being included in all group activities when you prefer it. The idea is: come alone, meet new like-minded people and make lifelong memories . . . without being stuck with the "one size fits all" tour formula. Here is a basic thumbnail: · **Paris – 3 nights** Evening flight to Venice · **Venice – 1 night** Night train to Vienna · **Vienna – 1 night** Evening train to Prague · **Prague – 2 nights** Night train to Budapest · **Budapest – 1 night** Evening flight to Istanbul · **Istanbul – 3 nights**. Sleeper Cabins on the trains and First Class centrally located hotels in each city. ***What was The Orient Express?*** *It was long-distance passenger train service that began in 1883 with the original endpoints being Paris to Istanbul. The original name became synonymous with intrigue and was a showcase of luxury with comfort at a time when traveling was still rough and dangerous.* *In Istanbul the Pera Palace Hotel, built in 1892, was the accommodation at the terminus. And we are staying in it!* ***The original Orient Express ceased operation in 1977 and we are not using the original old train. It no longer exists.*** EVERY aspect of this trip is epic. * Visit picturesque and storied cities. * Enjoy trains and experience the enchantment of the rails. * In the end you will have visited 6 countries: France, Italy, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary and Turkey! **The tour starts in Paris on Sep 20 and ends in Istanbul on Oct 03.** ***$5490 total cost per person, double occupancy.*** ***$7090 total cost for solo occupancy.*** PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE AIRFARE. This allows for your flexibility and convenience. We are happy to give you an airfare quote. **To attend: $500 deposit. [CLICK HERE for a Secure Deposit Link](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/FXWZ8KNQ95EFJ)** Your Deposit is Fully refundable to 90 days before the event (less any PayPal fees). Final payment due 60 days before departure. [CLICK HERE](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8) To receive detailed itinerary and inclusions. [CLICK HERE ](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/281542406/)for the main link for this event RSVP there to get notice on any conversations or discussions. AND/OR if you have questions? [CLICK HERE](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062) to Direct Message to Anna [CLICK HERE](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881) to Direct Message to Marc AND/OR We do a[ ](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/284794370/)**[Zoom Q & A ( CLICK HERE to RSVP on the Q& A zoom)](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/287318466/).** Come to the zoom, ask any questions and meet other attendees. Great way to get the info you want without all the other fluff. 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](https://www.meetup.com/ccccc-c/events/)[ ](https://www.meetup.com/ccccc-c/)to see all our other fun and social meetup events. SOT 200318-10 ***Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!***
Urban Hike-Stairs & Hills, Glassell park
Fri, Sep 18, 1:00 AMLet's do the stairs in Glassell Park. The picture you see is Crestmoor Stairs which has 97 steps. Join us at 6:00 pm for a **moderate + brisk pace** urban hike in the neighborhood of Glassell Park. We will conquer 3 staircases UP and some steep hills all while enjoying the surrounding scenery. Average elevation gain is approximately 1000 feet. **TIPS/NOTES:** Please bring a flashlight if you have one. It's helpful so cars can see us. Also, some streets do not have sidewalks, so we will walk on the street. When a car approaches, we yell out CAR! That is our safety cue for EVERYONE to move to the side of the road and walk SINGLE FILE so that the car can pass through. **LEVEL**: Moderate + for brisk pace, some steep hills and long staircases. Average speed is 18-19 minutes/mile. We have to keep the pace in order to finish by the posted end time. We will pause briefly at top of hills and stairs to drink water, and to pet doggies. --This is not a beginner hike. If you find that you are not able to keep up with the group, you will have to explore or get back --on your own. We keep a certain pace so that we can finish by the time posted. There is no "sweep" or volunteer, to accompany or stay behind with folks who get separated. **LENGTH**: appx 5 miles, 2 hours. **BRING**: water, exercise clothes, workout shoes with good grip and tread (the majority of the hike is on asphalt and concrete), flashlight, phone with GPS in case u leave early or get separated, bug repellant? **MEETUP SPOT**: Super A Foods, 2925 Division St, LA 90065. We'll be in front of the market. **MEETUP TIME:** **6:00 pm sharp**. We have quick introductions and ***leave promptly at 6:05.*** **PARKING:** FREE around the surrounding side streets. The shopping center so far is ok for parking. **RESTROOMS**: Sometimes Super A is available unless they lost the key. Sometimes Dominos next door is available. Also halfway at Glassell Park Rec. Center. Please arrive EARLY and give yourself EXTRA time if you want to go to the restroom before the hike. We leave on time. **WATER:** You can arrive early and purchase water/snax at Super A. Water fountain also at GP rec center. **LIABILITY**: The organizer is an uncompensated and untrained volunteer. By joining this event each member accepts full responsibility for knowing their limits, for all injuries, health issues, material losses, assessing all risks and for getting lost. Each member shall make their guests aware of these policies and releases the host from all liability.
Red Rock Canyon & Valley Of Fire!! The Halloween Replacement Event
Fri, Oct 30, 9:00 PMValley Of Fire is stunning! Red Rock is equally so. **And we get to camp and then explore both.** ***Easy Camping!! Perfect for First-Timers*** [CLICK HERE](https://photos.app.goo.gl/56TXCjGkuWDfRYYf9) to see from when we have gone before. If you have not heard of either Valley Of Fire or Red Rock Conservation Area. . . that's because they are outside of California. We have so much here that we often can overlook what is right next-door and still super close. The other reason you may not of heard of them . . . Valley of Fire is a Nevada State Park and not a National Park. State Parks are assumed to not be as good as National Parks. And that's not true!!! Red Rock is a National Conservation Area . . . again . . . assumed to not be as good since not designated as National Park . . . yet. The reality is BOTH are stunning. And the designations make them more accessible. * Valley Of Fire has "The Fire Wave." Similar "The Wave" in UT. It also has * Pastel Slot Canyon * The Dome-lands (another slot there too) * Rainbow Vista Trail * Fire Canyon Overlook * Petroglyph Canyon (yes!!! Petroglyphs!!) * Atlatl Rock * Arch Rock * Pinnacles Trail (for the adventurous). And we are likely to see some or all of these: * Bighorn sheep * Jackrabbits * Coyotes * Kit Foxes * Lizards * Iguanas * Tortoises ***About this event:*** This event is tent camping (not RV or Van). You do need to provide your own gear and food. (more on that down below). We are staying outside of Red Rock on a private non-federal, non-blm site. The general itinerary/ schedule is: Fri- Arrive when you can. Anytime AFTER 2PM. People will be arriving up to midnight. I will be away to greet you and show you where to go. Along with whoever else is at the campfire at that time. Sat- Valley Of Fire - - This is the main fun. * Drive Mouse’s Tank Road towards Fire Wave and take lots of photos along the way. * Now to our main hike. We will get there early before the crowds. We will do a loop of four hikes together. Fire Wave, Pink Pastel Slot Cyn, Domes Slot, White Domes. They call it the 7 wonders loop. I do not know what the other three wonders are. * After that we make it to Fire Cyn Vista (this is a view only) * Then two short hikes of Rainbow Vista trail (this has natural arches) * & Mouse's Tank trial. This has 2000 year old petroglyphs all along the canyon walls. * A quick zip to Atlatl Rock (more petroglyphs). * Pinnacles Trail is an option for those that want more dirt on their shoes. * And lastly visit the Beehives and take tons more pix there. * Elephant Rock is also an option to drive to. * Get back to camp and we have a fab campfire all nite. Sunday Schedule will be Red Rock Cyn. * Easy vista points and viewpoint stops. * Medium (two or three smaller hikes) * Hard hike (for the hardcore among us. * We will break to groups accordingly by who wants to do what. * Get back to camp and we have a fab campfire all nite. Monday: Head home. * For those only staying Sat & Sun eve. Simply pack up Sun AM and do Red Rock with us and then continue home. **Time of year:** BOTH Valley of Fire and Red Rock Nat Rec Area are MISERABLE in summer. For this time of year . . . Daytime high will get up to 70 degrees. Perfect for hikes. Nighttime low will get to around 45 degrees. Just bring some extra blankets and you will fine. Another benefit of the time of year . . it's Halloween!!! RSVP does not guarantee your spot. Payment is the only way to secure you place. **[Click Here for Payment Link](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/RXQZCKMFT6T9S) https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/RXQZCKMFT6T9S** **Question: When do I have to pay by?** * The event is limited in size. * Our events always fill up. And with lower limit . . . it will fill faster. * When it fills the payment link is removed. If you did not pay you are not attending. * The short answer is pay now to 100% secure your spot. * Refunds issued up to 2 weeks before event start date. So you have till the start of Jan to cancel. * If cancel less than two weeks notice and receive 100% credit towards a future event. **Question: What if I stay two nights. Is it less?** No. But since we have for Sun night you can stay as late as you want on Sunday before packing up. It gives us flexibility. Why not stay till Mon? **Questions . . .** *Dogs?* This is a very dog friendly trip. Dogs OK on the trails and in camp and on the trails. Dogs must be on leash at all times. *Kids?* Kids are OK in camp and on the trails. Under 10 is no charge. 11 to 18 is 1/2 price. Leash is optional. *Carpool?* We help facilitate carpools for attendees. [Carpool info](https://www.meetup.com/MoreToExplore/events/282458970/)
Mt. Waterman Trail Maintenance
Sun, Sep 20, 2:30 PMThis is a great opportunity to combine your love of the outdoors with the gratification of making a significant contribution to the environment. We will be giving this trail some much needed TLC. There are trees that need to be cleared and storm damaged tread repairs. Hike will be up to 6 miles round with 1600' gain from starting from the Buckhorn Trailhead. Shorter hike options also possible. Pants & long-sleeved shirt, good boots/hiking shoes are required. Hard hat, gloves and safety glasses can be provided. Please be sure to bring plenty of water and your lunch. Event will be cancelled if it rains.
🏕️🚵🛻🥾Join Us for FREE Camping at Mt Pacifico
Sat, Sep 19, 2:00 PM**Please join the waitlist for overnight camping at Mt Pacifico Campground!** **Bring your favorite coffee or tea to brew and chillax, and camp overnight on a peaceful mountaintop, at 7,100’ elevation.** **The campground is free, with picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets.** **There is no water at the campground.** **Park your vehicle at the Mill Creek Summit Picnic Area off Angeles Forest Hwy.** **Google for directions.** **Adventure Pass not required if you park directly across the highway from the Mill Creek sign.** **\>\>HIKE/BACKPACK:** **Start anytime.** **PCT trailhead leading up to the campground is next to the Mill Creek sign.** **It’s 6 miles on the PCT up to the campground.** **No need to carry extra water, we’ll have plenty of water for you.** **\>\>DRIVE/CARPACK/BIKE/BIKEPACK:** **Start anytime.** **Use the fire road just past the fire station.** **It’s 6 miles on the dirt fire road.** **High clearance vehicles recommended during the last mile to the campground.** **Outbacks and RAV4’s are fine.** **CAMP RULES: No politics, no drama, no hard drugs, no spitting** **If you have any questions please comment below. Thank You!**
🏕️🥾🌠Join US - FREE Camping at Mt Pacifico
Sat, Sep 19, 2:00 PM**Please join the waitlist for overnight camping at Mt Pacifico Campground!** **Bring your favorite coffee or tea to brew and chillax, and camp overnight on a peaceful mountaintop, at 7,100’ elevation.** **The campground is free, with picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets.** **There is no water at the campground.** **Park your vehicle at the Mill Creek Summit Picnic Area off Angeles Forest Hwy.** **Google for directions.** **Adventure Pass not required if you park directly across the highway from the Mill Creek sign.** **\>\>HIKE/BACKPACK:** **Start anytime.** **PCT trailhead leading up to the campground is next to the Mill Creek sign.** **It’s 6 miles on the PCT up to the campground.** **No need to carry extra water, we’ll have plenty of water for you.** **\>\>DRIVE/CARPACK/BIKE/BIKEPACK:** **Start anytime.** **Use the fire road just past the fire station.** **It’s 6 miles on the dirt fire road.** **High clearance vehicles recommended during the last mile to the campground.** **Outbacks and RAV4’s are fine.** **CAMP RULES: No politics, no drama, no hard drugs, no spitting** **If you have any questions please comment below. Thank You!**
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