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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out backcountry events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the backcountry events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find backcountry events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Backcountry Events Today
Join in-person Backcountry events happening right now
Mountain Skills 1 Course
***Mountain Skills for Only €120 / course***
Ever wanted to learn the skills you need to become a competent navigator in the Irish mountains, the UK, the Alps or beyond!
As a fully qualified mountain guide and course provider for Mountaineering Ireland and the UK, I run Mountain Skills which is a nationally accredited course and is delivered in an upland environment.
Hiking in Ireland can be challenging not only because of its wilderness, but the island has very little sign posted hiking trails in the mountains or hills. In addition to this, as being an island in the Atlantic we experience the forces of nature; storms and weather events. In other words, Ireland is probably the best place in Europe to learn a new outdoor skill like Mountain Skills.
The aim of this course is to help you learn the skills you need to get out hiking in the hills and mountains independently, safely and responsibly. You will learn how to navigate with confidence by any type of weather conditions.
A Mountain Skills course is run over 2 days in an upland environment and covers:
Map reading, map description, map scale, contour lines, land and ground features, navigation legs, simple navigation techniques, setting the map, the 5 D, estimation of direction & destination, grid reference, mountain hazards, hypothermia, mountain environment, timing, pacing, route planning, route card, emergency procedures, personal equipment, safe movement skills, river crossing and much more…
Some level of fitness is essential in taking part in this course.
Each course (MS1 / MS2) is a 20 hour syllabus which includes indoor and outdoor sessions and night navigation (MS2)
**A course includes:**
Maps and compass provided, tea breaks, course notes, 3 route cards, a free hiking day practice as part of a weekend.
**For Only €100 for under 18 and students and €120 for adults.**
Accommodations can be provided
Her are few additionnal dates:
Jan 24-25 MS2 Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
Feb 11-12 MS1 Comeragh, Co.Waterford
March 21-22 Glenmalure, Co. Wicklow
March 28-29 Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
April MS1 18-19 Glenmalure, Co,Wickow
For more information contact us at: [aeaccom@gmail.com](mailto:aeaccom@gmail.com) / +35387 9691193
Or go to: [www.mountainadventures74.com](http://www.mountainadventures74.com)
Mountain Skills 1 Course
***Mountain Skills for Only €120 / course***
Ever wanted to learn the skills you need to become a competent navigator in the Irish mountains, the UK, the Alps or beyond!
As a fully qualified mountain guide and course provider for Mountaineering Ireland and the UK, I run Mountain Skills which is a nationally accredited course and is delivered in an upland environment.
Hiking in Ireland can be challenging not only because of its wilderness, but the island has very little sign posted hiking trails in the mountains or hills. In addition to this, as being an island in the Atlantic we experience the forces of nature; storms and weather events. In other words, Ireland is probably the best place in Europe to learn a new outdoor skill like Mountain Skills.
The aim of this course is to help you learn the skills you need to get out hiking in the hills and mountains independently, safely and responsibly. You will learn how to navigate with confidence by any type of weather conditions.
A Mountain Skills course is run over 2 days in an upland environment and covers:
Map reading, map description, map scale, contour lines, land and ground features, navigation legs, simple navigation techniques, setting the map, the 5 D, estimation of direction & destination, grid reference, mountain hazards, hypothermia, mountain environment, timing, pacing, route planning, route card, emergency procedures, personal equipment, safe movement skills, river crossing and much more…
Some level of fitness is essential in taking part in this course.
Each course (MS1 / MS2) is a 20 hour syllabus which includes indoor and outdoor sessions and night navigation (MS2)
**A course includes:**
Maps and compass provided, tea breaks, course notes, 3 route cards, a free hiking day practice as part of a weekend.
**For Only €100 for under 18 and students and €120 for adults.**
Accommodations can be provided
Feb 21-22 MS1 Comeragh, Co.Waterford
Feb 26/March 01 - MS2 in Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
March 21-22 MS1 Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
March 28-29 MS2 Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
April 09-10 MS1 Glenmalure, Co. Wicklow
For more information contact us at: [aeaccom@gmail.com](mailto:aeaccom@gmail.com) / +35387 9691193
Or go to: [www.mountainadventures74.com](http://www.mountainadventures74.com)
TouchDesigner Meetup Dublin @ TOG HACKERSPACE
We are hosting an open **TouchDesigner** meetup with demos, hands-on learning, and space to share work with others using the software. This is part of a series of monthly events in collaboration with **[@noid_lab](https://www.instagram.com/noid_lab/)** typically on the last Wednesday each month in the space, so this month it's 29th April, 7-10pm.
**Tickets are free** \- but registration is required to secure your place\. [Click here to register](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/touchdesigner-meetup-dublin-tickets-1987679859968)
**Workshops:**
In this session we will be hosting two workshops. The first will be run by [Pauric Freeman](https://pauricfreeman.com/), the class will offer a deep dive into instancing in TouchDesigner, breaking down the core principles behind this technique and demonstrating how it can be used to create complex visuals. The session will also explore the integration of MediaPipe, showing how real-time gesture tracking can be used to control instanced systems.
Following this, Cailean will be working with ..nodes! but not in the traditional TouchDesigner sense. This small workshop will explore how the behaviour of nodes can be controlled through the Network Editor using Python scripts.
**Format:**
The session will run for around three hours in a relaxed, hands-on setting. With multiple rooms available at TOG Hackerspace, we can host beginner and advanced activities simultaneously, ensuring everyone gets the most out of the evening. The event will focus on learning, with a combination of scheduled short and long presentations/demonstrations.
The last hour will take a more flattened and open approach, allowing the space for people to chat, share, learn, and explore TouchDesigner. Expect an informal, community-driven environment where the format adapts to participants. So if you would like to bring your laptop and learn the basics, share your projects, or connect with other using the software, this meetup offers a welcoming and supportive space to do so.
The event is also a great opportunity to meet other creative technologists and artists, and to continue building the growing TouchDesigner community in Ireland.
Contact us at [noidlab.collective@gmail.com](mailto:noidlab.collective@gmail.com) to share ideas for future sessions or to express interest in presenting your work.
A special thanks to TOG for allowing us to use the space for these events, and [Derivative](https://derivative.ca/) for supporting the project. The meetups are hosted each month by a group of artists and creative technologists:
Trip to Hillsborough Castle
**COST: 19 euros by PayPal ONLY**
Come and join us at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. It has a rich history to explore. It serves as the official home of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and as a residence for the Royal Family. The historic house built by Wills Hill has played an important role in Northern Ireland's history, including hosting talks that led to the formation of the Good Friday Agreement.
* **Details:**
* 08:30 Meet outside O'Brien's on Connolly Station
* **08:50 SHARP -Belfast Enterprise train departs**
* **11:01** Train arrives at Grand Central Station,Belfast
* We walk across the covered square to bus stop.
* 11:15 Bus departs for Hillsborough
* 11:45 Bus arrives in Hillsborough
* **We have to walk up a short STEEP HILL** to get to the castle and the restaurant where we are having lunch. The hill is neither long nor very high.
* **12:00 Lunch**
* After lunch, tour of the Castle
* After the tour we will catch the bus back to the train station in time for the 17:00 train to Dubln
* 17:00 train departs for Dublin1
* 19:18 Train arrives Dublin Connolly
*
[PayPal.Me/DLHGroup](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/DLHGroup?v=1&utm_source=unp&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=RT000269&utm_unptid=c5d142a8-2861-11ed-aa18-98039ba0714a&ppid=RT000269&cnac=IE&rsta=en_US%28en-IE%29&cust=ZTGE7US474996&unptid=c5d142a8-2861-11ed-aa18-98039ba0714a&calc=f793604dc7c12&unp_tpcid=ppme-social-user-profile-created&page=main%3Aemail%3ART000269&pgrp=main%3Aemail&e=cl&mchn=em&s=ci&mail=sys&appVersion=1.109.0&xt=104038)
* **REFUND POLICY; As we have to pay for the tour a week beforehand, there will be no refund after 20th April 2026**
***You can only come if your name is on the list of attendees.***
**Make sure you tick FAMILY and FRIENDS.**
In the message box, write your **name in full** and say which **trip the** payment is for. If your account is in a different name, please tell us the name of the person for whom you are paying.
**It can take up to 36 hours for the unpaid** by your name to change to paid, don't worry we will not remove your name from the going list without speaking to you.
Please pay as soon as you see your name on the **GOING LIST**
Remember to book your train ticket.
*
*
Meditation, Buddha Dharma and Qi-gong
About us:
The Tibetan Dharma and Meditation Group is part of a Buddhist organisation based in Taiwan, which is centred on one of the greatest living Rinpoches (teachers) in the world at the moment. It aims to introduce people living in Ireland to Buddhist teachings and practices that have been passed to Rinpoche through his masters and their masters going back many, many generations in order to benefit and bring peace to all sentient beings.
Location:
We hold our meetings in the small hall at Sandyford Community Centre, Lambs Cross, Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Backcountry Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Weekend Guided Hike and Mountain Skills practice - Mournes Mountains
*These weekend is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to practice mountain skills, pre-MS assessment candidates or simply anyone who wants to hike with a qualified mountaineering Ireland course director and venture in the Irish mountains on and off trails.*
*During those few days, you will gain useful information, skills and tips that will help keep you safe on the hills and mountains during daytime, nighttime, in bad weather condition or both.*
·May 2 \- 3 \| 📍the Mournes Mountains
**Price: €35.00 per hike**
***The hikes are graded as: moderate – difficult – strenuous***
**What gear do I need?**
•Wear comfortable clothing like – leggings, tracksuit bottoms, breathable T-Shirt and fleece & an extra warm layer (but no cotton fabrics and no jeans). Be ready for the rain and pack a rain jacket and rain trousers.
•A hat and gloves to keep you safe from the wind.
•Wear good sturdy hiking boots (No runners) with woolly or synthetic socks.
•Have a backpack with water minimum 1.5 litres, sandwiches and snacks, coffee, or tea.
•Don’t forget to bring first aid kit with plaster and bandages, personal medicine, inhaler, EpiPen etc.
•In Addition: you can bring an OS map of the area or an East West map. However, maps and a compass can be provided by the instructor.
**If you have any medical conditions, please let the organisers know**
*Some level of fitness is essential for those hikes which can be strenuous and up to 7 hours in duration.*
*Accommodation options will be provided upon booking.*
*If you have any additional question, please don’t hesitate to contact us at: [mountainadventures74@gmail.com](mailto:mountainadventures74@gmail.com) 0879691193*
Social 😻Singles Salsa Dance 🎉Party 🎊 - Make New Friends👫 (+ Salsa Class)
Make New Friends💏! This Event is a large Monthly Social Salsa Dance Party 🎉🎊🎇 for Salsa Dancers and for those New Solo people who want to learn Salsa dancing.
This Salsa Dance Party will be held in a large hall. There is Bar facilities, cheaper drinks and toilets are avaliable. Time of Dance Party from about 9.30pm/10pm. till after 1 am. Dress: Neat Dress.
(Salsa Dance class lesson from 8.45pm to 9.30pm.) There may also be free Pizza at the end of the party like in previous parties. There are Salsa Social Dance Classes on Thursday evenings for those who like to learn or improve Salsa dancing.
The entrance fee for the Salsa Party is 10 euros at the Door, which includes the Salsa class lesson. This is very good value. Place of large Hall is in Dublin 8. There is a large Free Car Parking at the back also. Dublin Bus 2 mins walk. There will be many other solo people attending from all around Ireland beside this meetup who already know this venue. In the past Social Salsa Dance Parties, over 270 people attended.
https://youtu.be/DWir_XczIE8?is=YWe0j-H3tECeWaQx
https://youtu.be/iyLdoQGBchQ?feature=shared
So if you are Solo, like Social Dancing, meeting new people and or like a free lesson to start learning Salsa dancing, RSVP and I will send you the Dance Party Address Details on the day of the event. Many people come solo, so do not worry, come solo or bring your friends with you and enjoy the great Latino music and social Salsa dancing.
Mountain Skills 1 Course
***Mountain Skills for Only €120 / course***
Ever wanted to learn the skills you need to become a competent navigator in the Irish mountains, the UK, the Alps or beyond!
As a fully qualified mountain guide and course provider for Mountaineering Ireland and the UK, I run Mountain Skills which is a nationally accredited course and is delivered in an upland environment.
Hiking in Ireland can be challenging not only because of its wilderness, but the island has very little sign posted hiking trails in the mountains or hills. In addition to this, as being an island in the Atlantic we experience the forces of nature; storms and weather events. In other words, Ireland is probably the best place in Europe to learn a new outdoor skill like Mountain Skills.
The aim of this course is to help you learn the skills you need to get out hiking in the hills and mountains independently, safely and responsibly. You will learn how to navigate with confidence by any type of weather conditions.
A Mountain Skills course is run over 2 days in an upland environment and covers:
Map reading, map description, map scale, contour lines, land and ground features, navigation legs, simple navigation techniques, setting the map, the 5 D, estimation of direction & destination, grid reference, mountain hazards, hypothermia, mountain environment, timing, pacing, route planning, route card, emergency procedures, personal equipment, safe movement skills, river crossing and much more…
Some level of fitness is essential in taking part in this course.
Each course (MS1 / MS2) is a 20 hour syllabus which includes indoor and outdoor sessions and night navigation (MS2)
**A course includes:**
Maps and compass provided, tea breaks, course notes, 3 route cards, a free hiking day practice as part of a weekend.
**For Only €100 for under 18 and students and €120 for adults.**
Accommodations can be provided
Feb 21-22 MS1 Comeragh, Co.Waterford
Feb 26/March 01 - MS2 in Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
March 21-22 MS1 Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
March 28-29 MS2 Glenmalure, Co.Wicklow
April 09-10 MS1 Glenmalure, Co. Wicklow
For more information contact us at: [aeaccom@gmail.com](mailto:aeaccom@gmail.com) / +35387 9691193
Or go to: [www.mountainadventures74.com](http://www.mountainadventures74.com)
30's - 45's Singles🥂Speed Friending 👫- Make New 🍻 Friends🤗
Are you Solo and Single!! Easily Make new 💑 friends🍻 with Speed Friending! No need for Apps 😀We are meeting for social drinks including soft drinks 🍺🍸🍷 at the Lemon & Duke Bar. We will be inside the Bar area. The Lemon & Duke Bar has also great food 🍗🍖🍰🍮 . Please, at least buy a drink or a soft drink or so, as we may not be welcomed again to certain bars. We will go to another late bar afterwards. So Dress Nice & neat please. Leave your surfing cloths and 🏖 surfboards at home please.😂
https://youtu.be/wD0Mm6WIcYs?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/mfJC34tOZms?is=5qdsIcjAysSKDBbn
Many new people come solo to socialize and make new friends, so do not worry if you are solo, you are welcome to join us. I will introduce you to others in the group,so you are no longer solo. 😆Welcome to ask me questions about hiking gear and 🐬🐠🐡 scuba diving.
Bachata and Salsa classes with Dubachata
Adult Bachata and Salsa dance classes with practice social at Coolock Ardlea Scout Den Coolock Village.
This is a mirror studio located upstairs from the hall with nice wooden floors.
This is a weekly Thursday event. Come down, learn and have fun!
Men and Women are welcome.
Free taster for first timers and discount for students, request via dm.
Beginners cost 10 euro for all beginner classes and practice.
30's - 45's🦋 Social Singles⛰️ Hike 🐕 🌺 Glendalough.
Are You Single and Solo? Make new friends 🤗 👫 while hiking ⛰️🏞for health and to refresh your mind in the 🦋 Wicklow 🌻🌼🌺 Country side. (Is this a Boot Camp 😀😍??)This is an easy social hike 🐿🐐🐏 in Glendalough but you still need some hiking fitness and be able to walk on rocky paths. We will hike the lakes loop which is about 12kms or more.
https://youtu.be/Yxo0ym2Z6eg?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/nZjzoVBBSCk?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/mfJC34tOZms?feature=shared
https://youtu.be/Lgs9QUtWc3M?feature=shared
The meeting spot will be in Dublin City Center at 10.20 am Opposite The Shelbourne Hotel St.Stephen's Green park. At 10.30 am we go ahead to board our bus. We will take the 11.00am express Bus to Glendalough. Be early🙂. The hike starts at about 12.15pm from Glendalough MAIN visitor's center at the bus stop and bus pickup point back to Dublin at 17.30pm. Please be on early and on time for those who are meeting us in Glendalough.
This hike is not always on a track🏔, so HIKING BOOTS with Vibram Sole and ankle support highly recommended as some tracks are also very rocky and muddy. No JEANS for this hike ,No Running shoes please. Dogs 🐕🦮🐕🦺 welcome, But need to check with bus company if not driving by car there. Bring waterproof warm winter clothing, food, snacks and water or drinks as we will stop for breaks. You Need some level of fitness and some hiking experience but this is not a hard hike.
This is a sporting event, so every person attending this hike is responsible for their own health and saftey at all times.
Ireland - The Burren Way & Other West Ireland Walks
Greetings Everyone - We will be visiting Ireland. The plan is to do The Burren Way, which has the very famous Cliffs of Moher, Burren National Park and other west Ireland walks and whiskey tasting
The plan is to give people options around the Portuguese walk - you can do Korea, Portugal and Ireland. One or some. Priority will be given to those who have been overseas with the group before and/or doing all 3 events.
● Some words to inspire you:
Exploring Ireland's Burren Way and the of West Ireland walks offers an enchanting journey through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
**The Burren Way**: Hikers will be captivated by the region’s distinctive flora and fauna, where Mediterranean, Arctic, and Alpine plants grow side by side. Highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, offering dramatic views over the Atlantic Ocean, and the Burren National Park, home to a myriad of wildflowers and historical sites. The route passes through the charming village of Doolin, known for its traditional Irish music, and ends in Corrofin, a gateway to the Burren.
**West Ireland:**
Hiking in Western Ireland offers a captivating blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and serene natural beauty. This region, renowned for its rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and mystical boglands, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether it’s a challenging mountain ascent or a leisurely coastal walk, hiking in Western Ireland provides an unforgettable adventure through one of the most beautiful and culturally rich areas of the Emerald Isle.
Hotels will be pre-booked 2 or 3 star.
SUV (1 or 2) Hire required.
For the Monthly Payments:
**Bank Account is: 12-3430-0791504-03** Many thanks
● PLEASE: No smoking, animals, children or guests.
● Schedule:
Day One - Fly into Dublin from Faro Portugal. Catch the direct bus from the airport to Galway and pickup rental SUV's. Drive to Ennis and stay four nights.
https://www.flightlink.ie
Day Two - Drive to Liscannor and walk to Doolin - about 4-5 hours. This is the famous Cliffs of Moher. Afterwards we can to a boat trip to the base of the cliffs. This is optional.
Times are 12, 2pm, 3pm and 5.15pm. It’s about a 50 minute trip. The company is [www.doolinferry.com](http://www.doolinferry.com/). It’s about $50.
Day Three - Drive to Fanore - Do the Black Head Trail (26km - 5 Hour). Drive back to Ennis.
https://visitclare.ie/activities/black-head-loop-walk-the-burren/
Day Four - Drive to Burren National Park, Corofin for free shuttle bus to National Park (First bus leaves 09:30 and do the Mullaghmore trailhead (6 Hour). Return to Ennis
Driving Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZUgp6bXzQskQ9X9Q8
Day Five - Drive to Galway (Stay two Nights) - Free day to check out Galway.
Day Six - Two Options: First - Boat Cruise - OUGHTERARD – INCHAGOILL – CONG RETURN
https://tinyurl.com/Galway-Cruise
Only runs Wednesday and Saturday. May need to be flexible on this event.
Second - Carna - Visit and explore the small coastal town of Carna and do the Moyrus Coast Walk - also practice our Irish.
https://connemara.ie/listing/luibin-mhairois/
Day Seven - Drive to Connemara National Park - Do The Sheffreys Mountain Loop, 771 metres. 5.5 hour hike. Drive to Cleggan and catch the 18:45 ferry to Inishbofin Island (Stay 2 Nights).
https://inishbofinferry.ie/timetables/
https://www.inishbofin.com/accommodation/
Day Eight - Day/Night on Inishbofin Island - 3 loop walks.
https://www.inishbofin.com/explore-bofin/scenic-walks/
Day Nine - Catch the ferry back to Cleggan.
Drive to Connemara National Park and do The Maamochoige-Knocknahillion-Letterbreckaun Walk
https://www.summitpost.org/maamturks/242472#google_vignette
Then drive to Westport for two nights
Day Ten - The Skelp & Brackloon Forest Walk. (5 Hours)
https://www.destinationwestport.com/explore-westport/hiking-in-westport
Day Eleven - Drive to Achill Island and do some walks
https://tinyurl.com/Achill-Walks
Return to Westport.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/J2eSSdZY5JyVSgseA
Day Twelve - Return to Galway - Do city relaxing stuff before leaving for Dublin and fly out.
● Health and Safety Information:
Each person who participates accepts responsibility for making their own determinations and for their own safety, conduct and well being; recognising that there are hazards in attending group and outdoor activities and agrees to participate solely at their own risk.
● Meeting Place:
Dublin Airport
● Maps and More Information:
https://www.wildernessireland.com/blog/irelands-long-distance-trails/
● The Best Photos:
The best photo of the day will posted on our Instagram Account.
● More Stuff:
See you in Ireland in May 2026 for a great adventure - Chris and The Team
Backcountry Events Near You
Connect with your local Backcountry community
COUNT RMH Housewarmer Volunteering (Ronald McDonald House)
Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process.
Fast track
• Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell).
• Show up and try it out.
• Complete application, etc. later.
Normal process
• Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/).
• Attend orientation in advance.
• At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility.
• Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM.
• Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895).
The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014.
Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.
COUNT Discussion Meeting: Topic: Current Events
We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another.
Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us.
Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.
COUNT monthly event: Kitchen service at Van Buren Center's shelter
Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above.
There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change.
The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/).
Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers.
For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.
Journey: Hiking the Highlands in Scotland 2026
*We can only take 13 women on this trip.*
**The details...**
Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this exclusive **women’s 8-day hiking** adventure.
Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll by the end of this trip.
***Learn more about this all women journey here: [Highlands](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)***
**A guided adventure:**
Guided by experienced locals, explore the untamed hills of Glencoe and the Cairngorms during invigorating day hikes. Each evening, unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, forging friendships and savoring Highland hospitality.
This is more than a hiking trip.
It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history and traditions. Learn about women-led crofts and take a loch plunge while wild swimming (followed by a steamy sauna).
**What to expect...**
* Hike in Scotland’s rugged Highlands and experience green Glencoe.
* Visit a medieval castles and historic stone villages.
* Soak up the history of Edinburgh’s city center.
* Indulge in delicious and plentiful Scottish cuisine, including fresh seafood, local beer, and hearty breakfasts.
* Traverse heather-clad landscapes while giving your body a good workout. (You must train for this trip.)
* Enjoy restorative stays at beautiful hotels.
**Wait, there's more...**
* Bask in the beauty of the Cairngorms.
* Hike with other Bold Spirit women who love to travel as much as you do.
* Learn about rewilding and women-led crofting.
* Shop along the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh.
* Take the plunge into a loch for wild swimming and a shoreline sauna experience.
* Stretch both your mind and hamstrings on this special journey.
The best part? Our team **takes care of the logistics** so you can focus on enjoying a much needed vacation in beautiful Scotland.
Are you ready to meet other women who love to hike and travel, plus see Scotland with professional guides?
***Learn more about this all women tour here: [2026 Hiking the Highlands Journey](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)***
* Ask us questions here: [Tell me more about this trip](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact)
* Learn about Bold Spirit Travel [here](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/about).
* Rates start at $6195

















