Peak Adventures

Santa Cruz Mountain Biking

2011-07-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

Cool Way to Escape the Heat
By John Pistotti

As the Sacramento summer heats up, Peak Adventures finds various cool ways to escape the heat. The salty coastal air and the dense forested hills of Santa Cruz provides a fun get away three hours southwest. Upon arriving to the area we ate lunch and tossed the frisbee in true Santa Cruz style.

We stayed at Henry Cowell State Campground and after setting up our tents Friday afternoon, we immediately took to the trails for some basic riding instruction and off-road fun. Saturday was spent with a brief stop at the boardwalk, followed by a challenging ride uphill at Wilder Ranch and a thrilling descent. We shuttled the van back to the top of Twin Gates trailhead for one more downhill pass before returning to camp for a well earned meal. After packing up the campsite on Sunday, we returned to Twin Gates for a couple more laps before heading back home.

Everyone was exhausted from riding hard all weekend. As we arrived in Sacramento in the heat of the day we were ready in anticipation for the Santa Cruz Surf Cap in September.

Outdoor Rock Climbing

2011-06-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hiking and Climbing at Cosumnes River Gorge
by Mary Blake
Trip Date: June 12, 2011

Another successful adventure occurred on the rocks near Cosumnes River Gorge. Four of the staff from Peak Adventures guided seventeen participants through the gorge and up rocks. Students, couples, friends, and families including an eleven-year-old girl grasped a feeling of accomplishment during their ascent.

The trip began at Sacramento State with a fun-filled activity allowing everyone to feel more connected and comfortable with each other. Then, after arriving at our destination, as one person attempted to reach their climbing goal, the others supported that individual with encouraging words and helpful climbing suggestions. As the day progressed on, participants used their belaying techniques, learned on the pre-trip, to insure the safety of their climbing partner as the climber ascended the rock. Also present in this day of climbing was laughter with old and new friends. The gorge with shady trees, carved rocks, and a nearby running river created a peaceful atmosphere in which one could relax and feel free to be themselves.

One could feel the sun’s hot rays but fortunately the temperature dropped once one entered the climb called the chimney. Courage was found for many in the chimney. While belaying climbers in the chimney one could observe climber’s using feet and back to inch up the two walls of the chimney. Then, seeing at least three participants ascend the chimney a second time and reach their goal of the first ledge sparked a moment of celebration. Overall, the combination of a beautiful environment, knowledgeable guides, and friendly participants created a memorable adventure at Cosumnes River Gorge.

Training for your Next Epic Adventure

2011-03-23T15:14:00.000-07:00

Training for your next

Epic Adventure

By John Pistotti

03.23.1011

If you have ever seen Survivor or Bear Grylls on TV, or heard legends of John Muir, then perhaps you have imagined yourself on a similar adventure. Living in Sacramento offers many opportunities to escape the urban environment and travel into the wilderness. But, before you run off to that next awesome trip, here’s a few quick planning and preparation tips.

1. Ingredients for an Awesome Trip

The ingredients required for planning an epic adventure simple: research and creative vision. Ask yourself “What do I want to do with my upcoming vacation time?” Is there some place you want to go? Is there an outdoor activity that you have always wanted to try? Maybe you have always wanted to rock climb in Yosemite or trek on a multi-day back packing trip. Whatever it is that you have dreamed of doing, the only thing keeping you from accomplishing your goal is a lack of preparation.

2. Plan Early

The sooner you begin to set plans the sooner you will be enjoying that perfect vacation. Try to make campsite reservations up to six months in advance to insure that there will be space available. Some of the Yosemite camp sites fill up 6 months in advance; the day they open up.

Keep in mind the estimated costs of the trip in terms of travel, lodging or permits, food and required time off from school or work.

3. Train

Once you have set a goal then it is time to prepare by gathering resources and training for the physical demands of the challenge. Give yourself at least a month or two of consistent similar physical activity before attempting to conquer your goal in nature. If you are planning to go backpacking make sure to break in your boots with several shorter hikes and practice hiking with a fully weighted pack on. You might feel strange walking around your neighborhood or on a treadmill at a low speed and high incline while wearing a huge backpack, but it will make your life much easier when you set foot on that amazing journey.

4. Gear Up

When gearing up for your next mission, ensure that you have the proper gear available. Tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags are a must if you’re staying overnight. Closed toed shoes are necessary if you’re walking over some rough terrain. If you’re going somewhere cold, avoid cotton clothing, as it can soak in moisture and actually lower your total body temperature.

You’re a student, so you can also take advantage of your student discount by dropping by Peak Adventures (it works on their rental gear). If you’re missing an essential camping stove, backpack, or any other item, drop by and pick one up for the weekend.

Don’t hesitate to plan your next epic adventure!

Boreal - Learn to Ski and Snowboard Trip

2011-03-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

Learn to Ski or Snowboard at Boreal

2/27/11

Learning to ski or snowboard can seem like an overwhelming goal. Our van-full of new skiers and boarders talked about the challenge as we headed up to Donner Summit on I-80. While it felts like there are a lot of obstacle, but Peak Adventures leads the participants through the process, providing guidance and allowing everyone a chance to focus on the fun of downhill snow sports.

The weather, clothes, equipment, and transportation can seem out of reach for those with little experience. As a leader I try to teach the benefits of layered clothing and good planning. The participants usually bring a variety of options from their own wardrobe for possible changes in the weather, and to see what works best for each of them.

On my last trip, true to form for Northern California winter fun, the newscasts had shown a wild winter storm midweek, but by the weekend were enjoying temperatures in the mid forties. Although we prepared for sub-zero weather, we peeled off layers of clothing as the group practiced on the sunny ski hill during the afternoon.

Our van made its way into the mountains and back very smoothly because the snowplows had completely cleared the highway before we arrived. We are always prepared for changes, but checking the weather predictions helps us plan for our best approach and timing.

After arriving in the mountains, we all moved directly into the resort, got equipped with skis or a snowboard, and took right off into the morning lessons with professional teachers.

Our groups are diverse, often including college freshman, exchange students, siblings, parents, and community members. Each person chooses how they want to participate and at what level, understanding their own fitness, and how they want to challenge themselves that day.

The ride home is often hushed by exhausted skiers and boarders, smiling at the stories shared about their first day, knowing they will return with new skills to ski or board again on the mountain. Pleased that they have challenged themselves in a new way.

Submitted by Tom Higgins

Echo Summit Snowshoe Day Hike

2011-02-25T14:29:00.000-08:00

1/30/2011

While the morning was wet and gray in Sacramento, we didn't let it dampen our spirits as we prepared for our day on the mountain. Our anticipation only increased as we headed up Highway 50 toward the summit. The dripping rain turned to wispy snowflakes as we gained elevation and the snowdrifts built up along the roadside.

As the van made its way into the parking lot, we all marveled at the winter scene unfolding in our midst.

Our group assembled for a quick briefing on the rather simple use of snowshoes, and we packed our lunches in daypacks, along with extra gear for the day's adventure. Bathrooms and the snack shack in the parking lot made it an ideal starting point for the trip as we prepared for our trek.

We took the trail leading right from the parking lot into meadows and the lightly forested terrain of this part of the mountains. Our route took us along a rolling path with a couple of feet of new snow covering the ground. Our group included beginners and some with experience, and we settled into a modest pace. The group made our way into open glades and through tree covered creek beds, frozen for the season, still and silent as only a winter day provides.

The sun made a tiny appearance and the snow ceased just as lunch was the topic for our friendly group as we walked. We stomped down a section in the snow, some carved out more elaborate seats, and we all found a place on our insulated pads for a picnic and rest.

The depth of the snow gave us a challenge as we moved through the day, providing everyone who wanted it a chance to break the trail. Others made snow angels, and soaked in the natural beauty, following in the trod footsteps made by the leaders. It also gave us ample opportunities for extraordinary snapshots of the winter wonderland--and a few epic snowball fights for the adventurous.

We could hear the calls and laughter of kids on sleds near the parking lot as we headed back to the van. We concluded with a little hot chocolate and huddled over stories of the day. For some it was the first excursion to the snow and hiking, and for others it had been a renewed connection to a special season and place. For all it was a brief trip to the striking beauty and glory of the mountains in winter, meeting new people and sharing the day.

Submitted By Tom Higgins

Keeping Active During Winter

2011-02-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us.

With all the food, family, friends, and fun you are sure to have, it is easy to become complacent, especially when the weather is bad. Don’t do it! This is a great time to rediscover your favorite hobby, travel around your area, or pick up a new sport. Go on a day hike and explore the local Northern California wildlife, traverse the elements under the stars on a Starlight Snowshoe hike, or learn how to ski and snowboard. Bring friends and family with you on your adventures. Experiences bond us, whether we realize it or not. Inherently, it is the experience that creates a venue for parallel learning, provides opportunities for abstract thinking, and sets the stage for sharing your soul with those around you. You can discover new abilities in yourself and in others while being healthy and active.

Wash those winter woes away, and be adventurous!

-Dawn Lenhart

In Search of Paradise

2011-02-17T14:44:00.000-08:00

Sand Ridge Lake Backpack 8/13 - 8/15/2010

Only two hours away from the noise and commotion of Sacramento lays a majestic meadow, accurately named Castle Meadow. Along Highway 80 East toward Reno the first ski resort is Boreal, where Peak Adventures travels during the winter for Beginning Ski and Snowboard trips as well as Snowshoeing and Snow Camping trips. Last winter provided 150% snowpack, so as we set foot on the Pacific Crest Trail in August the wildflowers covered the Tahoe National Forest in an explosion of color. After a challenging hike with full backpacks we arrived to Sand Ridge Lake, a picturesque location to set camp.

The second day of our trip began with a brief dip on our private lake followed by a day hike up to the PCT to a stunning area called Paradise Lake. We swam out to a small island and soaked up the sun for while before returning to camp for one more night. What would the perfect trip be without a campfire? The group played cards next to the crackle of the fire ring, as the night sky grew darker and the stars became more apparent. Without all the light pollution from the city we were able to see a hand full of shooting stars before falling asleep. As we returned home the next day it was clear that paradise is not that far away.

Peace,
John Pistotti

Rafting with Sac State Orientation Leaders

2010-06-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

I can't remember how many times I have guided this group (which changes yearly) of Sac State Orientation leaders. Historically every time has been amazing. The job of the orientation leaders is to be open and inviting to incoming students to Sac State. This requires a very outgoing personality willing to have fun. That is what makes a great day on the river. Once again they were ready to have fun and experience what the river has for them.

We started off at noon with 25 people filling up 4 boats. These large trips are amazing with a splash fight seconds away. When you have a larger quantity of boats on a trip, you get to see your friends go through rapids before or after you do, and possibly laugh or cheer them on. This is what this group did.

The hot weather, cool water, and great people made the day. Everyone seemed to get along with each other as if they were long time friends (maybe they weren't but they were going to be after this trip). The entire day went smooth, which is difficult to pull off with a group this large and the logistics of such a trip. I have always looked forward to this trip every year, and I am already looking forward to the next one. Thank you Orientation Leaders! You were just as key to the successful day as well as the fellow staff members that helped!
-Brian

Rafting the Upper American

2010-06-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

The upper section of the South Fork of the American River gets often overlooked by many. The early morning meet time of 8 am many times scares off participants. But with the droopy eyed morning comes some benefits, such as solitude.

The participants showed up as planned and we loaded into our van for the short drive to the upper section known by many as "Chili Bar", named after the Chileans that were banished there (to their lucrative benefit) during the gold rush. Once we arrived we did our final checks on the gear and loaded up the rafts. At 9:30 am we put on and within minutes we hit "Meat Grinder" and, GOOD MORNING, the first splash yelled at us, and we all awake with adrenaline.

We picked our way through the rock garden and made our way through Race Horse Bend, Maya, African Queen before we even saw another boat on the water, pure solitude. After the three threats it was onto Troublemaker. Here we got to see our river faces as professional photographers snap pictures of us as we navigate through the double drops of the rapid.

We then got to relax and enjoy the sun the rest of the way as we made our way to our take out. We finished around 1 pm, and with enough time to check out photos, the local eateries (check out Starving Dog Pizza), and make our way home.
-Brian

Climb the Rock

2010-06-15T13:47:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the beginning of summer! A beautiful day, a great group of people, some first timers and some returning for a second helping of basic rock climbing, including two couples, an English professor from our very own Sac State and two newbie’s excited about diving into a new endeavor. What could be better, except maybe the amazing view! Our half-mile hike down to Cosumnes River Gorge was the perfect warm-up before a great day of climbing. Dodging Poison Oak and gaining a lesson on how to recognize it in the future from our fearless leader Brad was certainly a plus as well. (There were no cases of Poison Oak attacks I am proud to say). We were the first to arrive at the spot ready to climb but before doing anything else, we took in the view while we stretched. There was definite bonding and new friends were made. Sunscreen and water became our best friends as the day went on. We all challenged ourselves with encouragement from everyone else. Some of us bounded up the rocks as others worked strategically to discover the art of rock climbing. The chimney was our escape from the smoldering heat, which was not taken for granted seeing as our original plan to take a dip in a swimming whole was fudged due to unexpected high waters and quick rapids. By the end of the day we were all exhausted and ready to head home after a perfect day of climbing. As we hiked back up to the van, we passed a number of other climbers surrounding the rocks. Sweating and panting and having just finished my last drop of water, I was certainly glad to be heading out and leaving the sun and it’s beating rays to the later-risers.
-Hannah

Committing to success

2010-06-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

Many of us are afraid to commit. However, it's commitment that pushes us toward success. I see this every time I run "The Dive" (AKA "The Leap of Faith") a high ropes element on our Challenge Center. "The Dive" basically consists of a plank 40 feet high that one jumps from to a trapeze roughly 8ft from the plank. By no means is anyone forced to try to go for the trapeze. But I've seen this element hundreds of times and am convinced that the only ones who succeed in grabbing onto the trapeze are those who commit. Sure there is another necessity for success - ability. But even those with ability don't always make it. I've seen a perfectly health and fit 200 pound 6 foot 5 athlete not make the trapeze even after he told everyone around him that he was going to. He had ability but lacked commitment. He gave up before he even leaped. How do I know this? He had one hand on his harness rope when he leaped for the trapeze. His attempt was not full commitment. If he had used both strong healthy arms, his chances of accomplishing his goal and boast would have been much higher. This metaphor has taught me, and I hope you, a great lesson for the goals we set in our own lives. We need more than just ability for success, we need commitment.
-Samuel

Rafting opener for 2010

2010-06-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

A group of student government and student club representatives from Modesto Junior College, participated in team building activities the day before. Now, it was time to put their teamwork in a real activity…… whitewater rafting! I discussed the goals and expectations that the group had with their team lead on the challenge course and knew that rafting would be an excellent follow up activity.
The weather threatened to rain on us in the days leading up to the trip. Eighteen participants were not scared of Mother Nature and everyone donned his or her armor (wetsuits and splash tops that we provided) and off we set. The water was perfect, and so was the weather. This group was not about to let anything dampen their fun. I could tell that the group was willing to enjoy anything we offered, and they replied with laughter and smiles.
I could not believe the weather. It was perfect! It was comfortable with hardly any breeze. The best part is, the previous weather reports scared everyone off the river. We only saw one kayaker and one other raft all day. I always appreciate the serenity that a river can provide, the blank canvas of wilderness adventure. The river was flowing almost 2.5 times the normal flow rate, and presented some amazing rapids at Satan’s Cesspool, Haystacks Canyons, and Hospital Bar. Joel, a recent addition to our staff came for a ride in my boat and he was able to snap some amazing pictures of our group alone on the river. We made it through the “gorge” unscathed with adrenaline pinning smiles on our faces. The end was near and although we made it with out a drop of rain, the clouds started to look ominous.
Just as our boats were loaded on the trailer at the end of the day, and people were stepping on the bus, it started to rain - we made it in time. The drive back to camp was filled with laughter and jokes. This ride was loud and I can always tell the “fun factor” of the river with the energy that fills the bus. Back at camp, myself and the other guides started stowing the rafts and gear. My favorite part is at the end when the group comes back to thank us for the ride down the river, and we thank them. If it wasn’t for them, we couldn’t have been on the water ourselves. They definitely fit the equation for a great day…… great group + great water = a great day!
-Brian

Peak Adventures goes on a ride

2010-05-29T13:33:00.000-07:00

The weather was perfect. It was nice sunny day with a slight breeze to keep the temperature tolerable. The hills were still green from all the spring rain we have had. We made it to the stables just in time to eat our lunch and prepare ourselves for the 2-hour tour (Gilligan’s Island reference aside). There was a VERY large group ahead of us and we found out that they were 45 min. behind schedule. This gave us the chance to tour the visitor’s center and view the local fauna and wildlife. The 45 min. flew by as we chatted about everyone’s impending finals coming up.

Soon enough it was our turn to mount the steeds and tour the countryside. Unfortunately there weren’t enough horses for myself to go with our group and I left them in the hands of the stable guides who entertained us as everyone got situated on their horse. As each participant mounted their horse they became one with the horse (actually they were told that their name was the name of the horse to make communication easier with the stable guides). My co-guide and myself snapped some pictures as they trotted off the horizon, and a wild turkey strutted around the stables as if he owned the place (since the horses were gone).

When they returned smiles were attire. When everyone dismounted and got some water to replenish, I started the van to get the AC comfortable for the drive home. We stopped half way home to grab quick refreshments and they were still talking about their trip, but by the time we saw Sacramento off in the horizon, heads were nodding off as the days adventure caught up with all of us.

-Brian

Ventana Backpacking = Coastal Fun

2010-05-05T13:58:00.000-07:00

The Women’s Beginning Backpacking trip got off to an early start with all participants arriving at precisely 7am. We were able to quickly dole out group gear and load up the van for our big adventure in the Big Sur/ Ventana Wilderness area. We got on the road and managed to miss all of the infamous Bay Area traffic, thus giving us time for a pit stop in Monterey. We explored Fisherman’s Wharf looking for the best clam chowder and other coastal seafood specialties. After we had all gotten our fill (and we had thoroughly enjoyed the barking sea lions) we were on the road again. We arrived at the Big Sur ranger station around 1:30pm and were hiking by 2pm. The weather was lovely and we could have hiked in shorts and t-shirts but the encroaching poison oak made it kind of a gamble. The first part of the trail gained elevation quickly and made us all wonder if maybe we should have left that extra shirt or pair of socks at home. We passed many hikers and after a few miles of hiking, we were told we had finished the hardest part and the trail only got easier. We initially missed the trail down to our camp thinking there was no way we had already hiked 4 miles but were able to backtrack easily after speaking with some other hikers. We camped at the Ventana camp which was 1000 feet down from the trail but put us next to the river and enjoying the sound of water all night. We woke on Sunday to a lovely fire built by Betty and after some hot chocolate and quick breakfasts we were back on the trail. We made it out of the canyon quickly, crushing the 1000 feet of elevation in under an hour. Once out of the trees we had beautiful views of the surrounding mountains as well as the Pacific Ocean. We were all glad to see the car but sad to be leaving the wildflowers and picturesque rolling hills.

-Ali

Climbing Challenge

2010-05-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Nothing spells adventure more than the threat of incumbent weather. Basic Rock Climbing was forecasted at 90% precipitation, however that did not stop Peak Adventures from giving it the old college effort. When we arrived at the Cosumnes River Gorge the weather was cloudy, but the group’s spirits remained high as we maneuvered the poison oak covered trail. After setting up the ropes the sun began to poke through the clouds proving that despite the forecast it would turn out to be a beautiful day. After several hours of climbing the rain finally began to shower, but by then everyone’s forearms were toast and it was time to leave. This was a great opportunity for climbers of all skill levels to challenge themselves and the impending rain.
You can see all pictures from this trip on our facebook page here.
-John

Winter Survival

2010-04-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

The name, "winter survival class" says it all for anyone who has ever spent time in the mountains as a skier, hiking, or just playing in the snow. A sudden change in the weather, a wrong turn, or unpredictable delays can present serious demands for any winter recreationalist. This daylong class gave us the basic knowledge and skills we need to protect ourselves and feel more confident in the mountains.
We met our guide on April 13th as planned in a snowy parking lot, and headed off on snowshoes to learn and practice new skills and techniques. The trail was our classroom as we discussed how to read the weather and conditions, along with other special considerations for decision-making in the cold months. Our group included novices, and with others with more experience, but the lessons were useful for all, as we considered the challenges cold temperatures.
Food, clothing, and shelter were all covered in various ways during the course. We built snow caves after learning about how to choose the best location and type of shelter. On the comfort of insulated pads we had carried in, we ate our lunches and considered the challenges and options for an afternoon without those luxuries. The group all had a chance to try fire-building, making use of a variety of tools that our guide had helped us select before the trip.
After a full day blessed with sunshine on the deep snows of Hope Valley, we felt the mountain chill as dusk quickly approached and we headed back to the highway. We were thankful that while we learned about the special challenges of low temperatures and short days, we had brought proper equipment and learned its uses. As darkness fell, the hot chocolate stashed in the Peak Adventures van made our damp clothes and tired hands irrelevant. We also contemplated the valuable lessons we had learned for future trips and how much more prepared we already were.
-Tom

Feather Falls is an experience

2010-04-30T10:02:00.000-07:00

Good planning and a little luck brought our group of nine to Feather Falls on a perfect spring day. As we left Sac State under cloudy skies, we hoped the weather would cooperate, but we also tucked some extra layers in our daypacks, just to be prepared.
We chose the longer, but more gentle, trail (4.5 mi.) for our walk in to the Falls, giving us a chance to settle into a comfortable stride and enjoy the sights. The abundance of the forest ecology was evident all around. Recent rains had prepared the forest for our visit, but nicely held off as we enjoyed our hike. Slow-moving salamanders crawled in the rich humus on the forest floor. Where the sunlight reached open meadows, blooming wild flowers glimmered orange, blue, white and yellow, announcing the arrival of the season.
The robust seasonal runoff provided an exciting show as we arrived at the Falls. We were all ready for lunch as we found places to share the stunning view and enjoy a break on the viewing platform. Some of us lingered a little longer over lunch and the view, while several others went for the short hike around to the top of the falls for different perspective. The spray from the falls seemed to gather and mix with a light mist from the skies, providing another layer to the natural wonder of our visit.
For the return route, we took the shorter, but steeper route (3.5 mi.) along the lower creek. We all gathered at a rock clearing along the trail as we neared the end our hike. As experienced trekers and new hikers alike, we rested, shared the miracle of spring, and the fun of just being in the woods. We took pictures, shared power bars, and reflected on the day. This rest spot also has acorn-grinding divots in the rocks, carved over the millennia by Native Americans, illuminating our place in the long history of those who have enjoyed this special place.
-Tom

Rainy Adventure

2010-04-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

Despite forecasts of certain torrential rain, seven brave women showed up bright and early at the Peak office to start a day of exploring Mt. Tamalpais State Park. Everyone was excited to visit a new area and get out of the valley. We made it about 45 minutes outside of Sacramento before it started raining heavily. Betty, our fearless trip lead, drove us carefully through the rain to the ranger station where we donned our rain jackets, pants, and hats in an attempt to stay dry on our 4 mile hike. The beautiful trees in the beginning of the hike provided some cover from the downpour but as the trail opened into a meadow we all lost our race against the imposing water. On a clear day, the meadow provides views of the Pacific but on our cloudy day we could only hear the rolling waves. The rain didn’t let up for the entire three and a half hours we were adventuring and thus provided lovely “chocolate milk waterfalls” for us to climb past. We all made it safely over the famed Mt. Tam ladder and even managed a few cute photos! The rain made it tough to stop for a lunch break so we ate a few snacks and kept barreling down the trail.

Arriving at the van after 1000 miles of elevation change we were all wet and tired but fully satisfied with our adventure! It’s not often you get brag about spending a day battling the elements!

-Ali

Finding Polaris

2010-04-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

After enjoying the starlight snowshoeing trip to Castle Peak, I couldn’t get over the fact that, until this experience, I had never known how to find the North Star. The North Star, or Pole star, aligns with the earth’s rotation and has been used in navigation and map making for centuries. Sometimes called ‘Polaris’ due to its’ location directly over the North Pole, this distant star is only visible in the northern hemisphere and, currently, there is no true Southern Pole Star visible enough to be considered for use in navigation.
Interested in finding it yourself? It’s easy. Start by finding the ‘Little Dipper’. This is the smaller of the two ladle-shaped constellations. Follow the handle of the ladle to the end, and the brightest star at the very tip is Earth’s current North Star, ‘Ursa Minor’.
If you can only find the ‘Big Dipper’ (or, like me, can’t tell the difference), look towards the cup-end of the ladle to find the two outer-most stars from the handle. By extending the line these two stars make out of the cup, you will see that they point directly to the North Star, and also right to the handle of the ‘Little Dipper’.
When you go to find ‘Polaris’, drive out to higher ground so there is less smog and cloud cover. Try finding a place where there are less city lights, which make it more difficult to see. Or come join Peak Adventures for an overnight backpacking or camping trip to learn much more about the outdoors.
- Jake

Its a Tent Season

2009-12-28T11:45:00.000-08:00

If you have ever used a tent you might have noticed that season rating such as 3 season and 4 season. Do you really know what those rating really mean? Here is a quick breakdown for the difference between these ratings. Most tents have a 3 season rating. A 3 season tent rating says that the tent will protect the person from the weather found during the three seasons of Spring, Summer, and Fall. As you noticed that the 4th season, Winter, is not included in the rating. During these three seasons you can experience wind, rain, heat, cold, bugs, dirt, some snow and whatever else you can think of. A 3 season tent can be used easily during these seasons depending on the quality of the tent. A 4 season tent is built for snow conditions with colder temperatures, where as if it was used during warmer temperatures there may be complications with ventilation. I hope this quick little explanation helps with understanding the tent season rating.

-Matt

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-23T11:49:00.000-08:00

2009 is coming to a close. 2010 is almost here.

Time to tally up last year's activities and to plan next years adventures. We hope you have a wonderful time with your families and friends this holiday season, stay safe, and find time to recreate.

May all your next year's adventures be Peak Adventures!

-from all of us

Activity Life Span

2009-12-21T11:39:00.000-08:00

When you think of teambuilding, many people think of a variety of games and activities that result with groups being more productive, cohesive, and maybe even friends.
These games and activities can be fun, but have you ever participated in something and after a while it got boring? It can be hard to regain momentum especially if you are the one leading the group. Having a good list or a well sequenced list of activities isn’t enough. A successful leader knows when to end an activity and move on to the next to keep a group interested.

If you check out the bell curve above you’ll notice the 2 axes are labeled “Level of Engagement” and “Time Elapsed.” As time passes, hopefully, your group becomes more engaged or interested in the activity. Eventually the engagement level will drop off as people get bored. Once a group gets bored any number of things can happen; people become cranky, people will have a negative memory about the activity, and some people will check out completely and once that happens it can be really hard to bring them back and continue with the rest of the activities.

The trick I learned was to end an activity just after the peak of enjoyment. The bell curve is a great visual aid to understand that. At the peak of the bell curve is where the group is having the most fun or is the most engaged. Let’s look at the simple game of “Tag.” If I was teaching a group how to play Tag, I would explain the rules, start the game, and observe the group. Most times I engage in the activities as well, but I am constantly watching to see how people are interacting with one another. Once I see two or three people start to drop out or slow down, that is my cue to wrap it up, and wrap it up fast. As people drop out, others will follow. I may give a 10 second warning that the game is wrapping up, and then I end it (Point of Termination). Most people in the group are still having fun and that is the key: Leave them wanting more. They have had fun with this activity and they will be excited to see what you have for them next.
-Valerie

Stay Clear of Hypothermia

2009-12-18T11:15:00.000-08:00

With the cold weather we have been experiencing this week made me think about the different problems that could come up in a backcountry setting. One of those problems is hypothermia. Of course hypothermia can be prevented by properly layering and having the proper shelter, but do you know what to do if you did experience hypothermia. First thing is you never want to warm the body rapidly. Make sure you put on dry warm clothes. Sipping warm sweet liquid helps in giving your body the needed fuel it will use to warm itself and also helps raise the core temperature. The best way to prevent hypothermia is to prepare. Bring proper clothes and equipment with you and always prepare for the worst.
-Matt

Useful Resources for the Winter Season

2009-12-16T11:04:00.000-08:00

The season is here for the good ol’ winter storm. These storms bring the snow in the mountains and rain to the valley floor. For those of us who enjoy winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing these storms are welcomed.

With these winter storms also come traffic delays and storms that can make a trip not so enjoyable. As I wrote in an earlier blog it is possible to read weather signs to predict if the weather is changing. But for those of you who plan on going out and hitting the slopes with family and friends you might not be looking for changes in wind direction and clouds in the sky for changes in weather. There are actually places to go to check for the predicted weather and road conditions. A great place for road conditions in California is the Caltrans website. You can find that at www.dot.ca.gov . There is also a telephone number that you can call that will allow you check the road conditions. That number is 1-800-427-7623. Both of these options are great resources for finding current traffic conditions.

When dealing with the weather I tend to look at the weather channel for weather conditions in the area I am going to be traveling. I go to www.weather.com for my weather information. As there are many other places for finding information regarding weather and traffic I find these two locations to be the easiest and most up to date.

So be aware of the conditions, plan, and get out there to have fun. Here is to a great snow season!
-Matt

Adapt!

2009-12-11T09:29:00.000-08:00

Being adaptable is mandatory when dealing with Mother Nature. You must be able to adapt to all situations that can be thrown your way. This does not mean that you should not be prepared, but you need to be able to change your plans if necessary. For example I was out on a weekend backpacking trip in the Sierra. The weather showed temperatures in the high 30s. As we made it to our campsite we hurried to set up our tents and get a fire started because the weather was definitely getting colder and cloudy.

That night as the group was sitting around the camp fire the winds began to pick up and snow began to fall. Here is where we thought about what we were going to do. The group, with the exception of a few people, were on their very first backpacking trip and did not show up completely prepared for cold weather much less snow. As a group we decided to stay in place that night instead of trying to hike out and risk the chance of putting someone in danger. The next morning I woke up to about and inch and a half of snow on the ground and a cold miserable group. It was then that we had to change our plans and hike back out that morning cutting our trip short.

As a group we had to adapt to the weather and what is threw at us. If we continued with our plans we could have potentially placed someone in a position where they could have been hurt, or have such a bad taste of backpacking that they would not try it again. Being adaptable salvaged a trip that could have been a horrible experience instead I am able to tell a pretty interesting story.
-Matt

Biking in Rain or Shine

2009-12-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

Tis’ the season when bicycle commuting gets a little dirty. Riding in the rain can tend to soak your clothes with dirty rainwater from under the bicycle tires because when the roads are wet, your tires will start to shoot water off the back edges- like a ‘rooster tail’. Having a dirty wet “skunk” stripe up your back is never fun, but there are options to eliminate the “skunk stripes” of dirty water thrown off the tires. Most bicycles can be equipped with fenders; and riders can adorn raingear for the days when it’s all rain and no shine.

The question I get asked most is: “will these fenders will fit my bike?”
There are several options when it comes to fenders. The best coverage comes with a “full wrap” fender. These fenders are mounted directly over the tires with mounts that attach directly to the frame of the bicycle. The advantage to a “full wrap” fender is that it covers more of the tire than other types and are generally mounted very close to the tire so very little tire-water gets past. These fenders come in a few sizes to fit 26” wheels (beach cruisers, mountain bikes, and some comfort bikes) and 27”/700c wheels (hybrid/commuters, 70’s-80’s road bikes, touring bikes, old Schwinns, and some new drop-bar road bikes). The basic requirement to run full-wrap fenders to a set of mounting tabs near both axles; these look like small threaded holes above and/or behind the axles. Many new 700c road bikes and Track bikes do not have these mounting tabs on the frame and fork, so these bikes require a different type of fender.
Another type is a clip on or quick release fender. Clip-on’s are usually just long enough to block tire spray, and typically can’t be mounted as close to the tire as full wrap fenders. These fenders fit a wider variety of bicycles, but they have far less coverage than a full-wrap. These fenders are convenient because they come on and off easily, and often without tools. This convenience factor can quickly become a theft risk, so be careful where you park the bike with Q/R fenders. Cyclists riding 700c bikes without fender/rack tabs can use a set of special 700c clip-on fenders designed for “race” style roadbikes. These race style fenders are curved like a full coverage fender, but short like a Q/R fender. These fenders are usually quite lightweight and very effective.

When it comes to price, full coverage plastic fenders start at about $25-35+/set, chromed steel fenders cost around $35-45+/set, and handmade aluminum models run about $130-150/set
Clip-on Fenders can be very inexpensive, and can be purchased individually. Front mudguards can be as cheap as $7-10, and inexpensive sets can be had for $10-15. SKS has some nice options for 26” suspension forks starting at around $25. Race Style Fenders are usually more expensive than other clip-on’s, SKS ‘race-blades start at $50.
So gear up, and enjoy your ride.
-Your mechanic, Ryan

Holiday Car Fun

2009-12-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

The holidays are upon us. Many of us will be traveling far and wide to visit loved ones. Whether you are traveling with children or friends from college, the ride doesn’t have to be boring or frustrating. There are always the typical travel games that you can buy at the store, but I have compiled a list of games that don’t require anything more than a creative imagination and a good sense of humor. Happy Travels!

Collective Stories
This game is a favorite of mine. Starting with the Co-Pilot (the person sitting to the right of the driver) say one sentence to start the story. Moving clockwise throughout the car, each person will add on one sentence where the player before them left off. Keep adding on sentences until a player ends the story. Experiment with different genres of stories (silly, scary, fairy tales, etc.)

Variation – instead of creating a whole story, create one sentence. Play the same way as above but instead each person adds on one word each turn. In this game, run-on sentences are your friend.

I’m going on a Picnic
This is a simple memorization game that can get a little crazy. The first player starts with the sentence “I’m going on a picnic and I am bringing ________” and fills in the blank. Be creative. Let’s start with strawberry jam. The next person then says “I’m going on a picnic and I am brining…” and lists in order what everyone else has shared and then adds their object. For example, the second person would say, “I’m going on a picnic and I am bringing strawberry jam and a hoagie.” The third person would say, “I’m going on a picnic and I am bringing strawberry jam, a hoagie, and a chair.” See how many objects you can remember. My friends and I got up to 19 objects on our last road trip. How many can you remember?

Two Truths and a Lie
One person says 3 statements about themselves. Two of them are true statements and one of the statements is a lie. The rest of the people in the car must guess what statement is the lie. Try your best to use statements that would stump even your closest friends.

Enjoy!
-Valerie (Image courtesy of Sugaredup)

Snowboarding Fun

2009-12-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

Every year at Peak Adventures, we eagerly anticipate the snow season. Personally, this year I can’t wait. I finally have all my gear and I have convinced myself I will become a “boarder” before the season is over. I got the snowboarding “bug” 2 seasons ago and bought some used gear from a friend. I am an athlete, so I figured I would pick it up pretty easily, especially since I was bringing a few good friends with me. I could not have been more wrong. First of all, my friends ditched me at the top of this massive mountain, while I yelled after them “How do I stop?!” This began a day of face plants and front flips. I had no instruction and I could not make it down that hill for the life of me. Finally, after a few hours of embarrassing, painful rides down the mountain, I made it to the bottom without falling (although I have yet to master getting off the lift). So what do I do? I yell elatedly to my friend in line, and fall over. I was so excited!
That feeling of accomplishment drove me to attempt snowboarding a few more times that season, with different friends of course :)
I had a new activity that I loved, however, I wasn’t really wasn’t feeling that love back from the sport. The drive time wasn’t bad, but the gas was. It was so expensive; it prevented me from boarding last season. I also was exhausted after every day and dreaded the drive home. My arms were like jell-o, my legs, spaghetti, and my brain was kaput. Plus I was frustrated that I hadn’t really improved. Luckily, all that will be changing this year. I will be utilizing Peak Adventures; we offer very reasonable prices on how to learn to ski and snowboard. Better yet, the price includes the latest gear, gasoline, an instructor, and a ride up and back. Now I can enjoy the fun of snowboarding without any of the painful side effects. I will be taking advantage of our awesome deals and if you have a passion to learn snowboarding or skiing, and you have friends like mine, come with me on a PEAK ADVENTURE!
-Dawn

Bike Riding Tips For New Riders

2009-12-02T10:23:00.000-08:00

Like many sac State students, I am new to bike riding. I just moved here and bought a bike to use as transportation to and from school. What I did not realize is that riding your bike is very similar with regards to traffic laws. I also did not know how to properly conduct myself as a bicyclist or as a walker on the American River Parkway. I asked some questions of Tyler Newell, Bike Shop Manager and Lead Bicycle Mechanic, in hopes of learning a bit more about the world of bike riding in Sacramento.
It is important to be courteous as a rider (and in life :) using lights and bells will not only increase your safety, but is considerate for other riders. Be aware of other riders and make moves that others can anticipate. When riding on the American River Parkway, stay in the right lane. But if you are walking, you should walk in the lane that is facing traffic, so that you can see the cyclists coming. If you decide to ride on the streets, make sure you are comfortable riding in traffic. A bicyclist should obey all the standard traffic laws as if they were driving a car. Make sure to signal; this shows your intentions to other riders and drivers. Wearing a helmet is not required for persons over the age of 18, but it is always highly recommended.
There are also items you can purchase to enhance your biking experience and increase your safety. I personally have purchased many items from Peak Adventures that have contributed to the overall enjoyment of my rides and I am going to recommend three “must have’s,” in my opinion. The first is directed towards beach cruiser bikes and it is the front basket. Not only does it look good, but I can put my music in it, my purse and any other smaller items. The second is a rear flat rack. This allows you to put those bulkier items (i.e. backpack) on the back of your bike, freeing up your back for a more enjoyable ride. You won’t get as sweaty in the summer months and it is aesthetically pleasing. This is also safer because you have the freedom to move around. Along with the rear flat rack, I purchased panniers. These are like saddlebags for your bike. Many people opt for the milk crate/bungee cord system for their flat rack. Tyler explained to me that not only could I seal up my items in this bag, go to the grocery store and carry home more items, and it was hard to remove (deters theft), but it also had rear reflectors and was water resistant. This was a no brainer for me; “Let’s do it” was my response.
I hope this blog has increased your awareness of bike riding etiquette and available accessories. As I mentioned above, I am a novice. Luckily I can rely on Peak Adventures, where there are many years of experience among the staff. If I ever have a question about my bike, or biking in general, I know where to go. Peak Adventures specializes in serving students at Sac State as well as the community of Sacramento. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and talkative! They are always willing to answer any question or just “talk shop”. This is a great resource for anyone who would like to learn more about the benefits of biking.
Don’t forget…free chain lube everyday at Peak Adventures!

-Dawn

Brain Teaser Answers

2009-11-30T09:34:00.000-08:00

Did the puzzles from last week keep you up at night? Here are the answers you have been waiting for:
Puzzle 1
He doesn't have any stairs because he lives in a one story house!

Puzzle 2
Still 9 feet because the ladder will rise with the ship!

Puzzle 3
The times are the same!

Puzzle 4
We have to be careful what we are adding together. Originally, they paid $30, they each received back $1, and they now have only paid $27. Of this $27, $25 went to the manager for the room and $2 went to the bellboy.

Puzzle 5
The parrot was deaf and as such couldn't repeat a single word it had heard!

These puzzles and more can be found on www.brainbashers.com

-Valerie

Riding A Bike…A Sustainable Activity For Sacramentans

2009-11-25T10:05:00.000-08:00

I am new to bike riding. I just moved to Sacramento and I spent my hard earned money on a nice beach cruiser, opposed to $160 on a parking pass. It ended up costing me the same amount. However, unlike the parking pass, I am able to ride right up to my class. Now I don’t have to “shark” people to find a spot to park, I am maintaining a healthy condition, I get to rock out to tunes playing from my speaker in my basket, I am saving oodles in gas money, I am “green” which, as everybody knows, is totally in, and, more often than not, I beat my friends home because they are stuck in Sac State traffic. If this sounds appealing to you, then you might want to consider purchasing a bicycle.
I was a little hesitant at first, questioning my own “skills” as a bike rider. The last thing I wanted to do was to buy a bike and either be in poor shape for riding it everyday or crash it doing something simple like turning. But I pushed my fears aside and decided that I would make bike riding my only transportation for anything within 5-10 miles. I would ride it to school and work, both at Sac State, but I would also ride to my brother’s house in midtown, or to the grocery store, or any other errand that was within reach for my newly acquired bike riding skills.
What I have learned in my 3 months as a “biker” is a lot about myself and about my new community; things I would not have seen or realized had I not been riding my bike. I learned that riding a bike makes me feel like a kid again; the freedom of taking it on trails, the wind blowing in my face, riding with no hands. I love pushing myself physically and by taking different routes daily, I have the ability to do just that, all while having a great time.
I also noticed the amount of people who, on a daily basis, are walking, jogging, running, biking, and exercising along the American River. It is truly an amazing thing to take a ride, early in the morning, when the light of day is just approaching or in the evening, when the sun is waning; the trail comes alive with the flora, fauna, and animals that reside there, not to mention a multitude of people from Sacramento. It is during these times that you get to see how beautiful Northern California really is and how people recreate; I am renewed in my motivation daily. I see an older man taking a jog at 7 am, starting his day off right. I see friends, after a long hard day at school, take a run together to blow off some steam. I see parents and their children, riding their bikes, with big smiles on their faces.
All these reasons and more are what make my daily ride to and from school/work all that more enjoyable. The benefits of nature mixed with physical exercise are unparalleled. There is nothing like getting a work out while doing something that is fun. I love riding my bike and I hope everyone has an activity that is this much fun, which also contributes to your physical and mental well being…and, if you don’t, buy a bike!
-Dawn

Brain Teaser Fun

2009-11-23T09:19:00.000-08:00

These are some handy brain teasers to keep in your back pocket whenever you have some down time and want to test your friends. Enjoy!!

Puzzle 1
Everything Mr. Red owns is red, he lives in a red one story house and his chairs are red, his tables are red. His ceiling, walls and floor are all red. All of his clothes are red, his shoes are red, even his carpet, television and phone are red. What color are his stairs?

Puzzle 2
A ship is docked in the harbor. Over the side hangs a rope ladder with rungs a foot apart. The tide rises at a rate of 9 inches per hour. At the end of six hours, how much of the rope ladder will still remain above water, assuming that 9 feet were above the water when the tide began to rise?

Puzzle 3
I went on a trip last week. The traffic was moderate and the journey took two and a half hours. On the return journey, the traffic was similar, but I made it back in 150 minutes. How come?

Puzzle 4
Three people check into a hotel. They pay $30 to the manager and go to their room. The manager suddenly remembers that the room rate is $25 and gives $5 to the bellboy to return to the people. On the way to the room the bellboy reasons that $5 would be difficult to share among three people so he pockets $2 and gives $1 to each person. Now each person paid $10 and got back $1. So they paid $9 each, totaling $27. The bellboy has $2, totaling $29. Where is the missing $1?

Puzzle 5
Polly Perkins was after a talking parrot, so she went to the local pet shop in the hope of securing such a find. She was in luck. The shop assistant assured her that the parrot would learn and repeat any word or phrase it heard. Polly was delighted. However, a week later, the parrot still hadn't spoken a word. Polly returned to the shop to complain, however, it appeared that the assistant was accurate in what he had said, and refused a refund. Why didn't the parrot talk?

Stumped?? Check back next week for the answers.
-Valerie

Keeping Fit

2009-11-18T10:48:00.000-08:00

Physical fitness is important in living a healthy lifestyle. Exercising and eating healthy food are some of the first steps needed to become a healthy person. Exercising on a regular basis is a great way to improve your health and fitness level. You don’t have to pay hundreds of dollars in gym equipment or memberships if you just utilize the stuff around you. I use the American River Trail system for both running and biking. Not only do I use it to ride into work everyday I also use the trail at least 5 days a week during my workouts.. You do not have to workout like a professional athlete in order to get into better shape. Those of you who do not have a workout plan start with doing something you enjoy. If you like riding bikes, take your bike out on the trail for a 15 minute ride. If you need to fix your bike before you can ride it bring it on over to our Bike Shop, they will be glad to help you out. If you want to start an exercise plan and are not too sure what type to do, look them up. Obviously you have access to the internet or you would not be reading this. There are thousands of workouts online that you can find to meet your needs. Do not feel like you have to do the exact workout that you find. Add different activities that you want to improve on or ones that you enjoy. Instead of swimming, try running or substitute bench press weights for pushups. The main point is that you are stepping up taking initiative and pushing yourself, towards a better, healthier lifestyle.
-Matt

The Importance of Layering

2009-11-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

As the weather is getting colder the need to layer clothing is becoming more important in keeping the body warm and dry. When in the outdoors it is necessary to pay close attention to the material that your clothing is made of. One simple saying that I was taught while learning about layering clothing is “cotton kills.” This happens because cotton absorbs moisture and holds it close to the body. This moisture pulls heat away from the body increasing the chances of hypothermia in cold weather and making you uncomfortable. Layering should consist of a base layer which is a thin layer that wicks moisture away from the body and helps regulate temperature. The next layer is the insulation layer. The middle layer is the layer that actually keeps the body warm. This layer can consist of fleece, wool, or any other synthetic material that traps air to the body and also wicks moisture. The last layer is the outer layer. This layer protects you from the elements. These layers can block the wind or rain. Properly layering your clothes not only makes your outdoor experience a better one it can also save your life.
-Matt

NEW FEATURE - ASK A MECHANIC and the first question from Ashley

2009-11-12T11:07:00.000-08:00

Our Bike Shop has always been a go-to place for bike maintenance advice. Many students, cycling groups, and just pure enthusiasts come into the shop for service, gear or just to learn new ways to keep their best friend BIKE running in top shape.

We always have people asking for bike resources, product reviews, maintenance and riding tips. With ever growing popularity of our Bike Shop, we realize that friendly advice and good tips are hard to come by in other places, so we decided to create a free and readily available resource for you. Just email peakbikeshop@csus.edu any time, and ASK A MECHANIC what you want to know.

And this week, we get to kick of this service with a response to Ashley.

Thanks for your inquiry Ashley. Yes, we do stock a variety of white front lights and red rear lights on a regular basis. Ryan, one of my experienced mechanics, just posted some additional information on the lights for you. The price varies and I’m assuming you are a student so you could show your One Card at the time of purchase and receive a 10% discount. We also fix flats and offer a full range of other mechanical services here at Peak Adventures as well. A tube will run you $ 4 to $8 depending on type of tube and we charge $5 dollars to do the repair for you. Thanks again, and I look forward to seeing you soon at our Bike Shop.
-Tyler

It’s the Season of Lights

2009-11-12T10:50:00.000-08:00

As the seasons change and especially after the fall back time change, urban cyclists are faced with dark commutes and the struggles of winter riding. The must have accessory for this season is bicycle lights. Although DMV vehicle code does not change with the seasons, its clause on light requirements becomes an area of focus for local law enforcement this time of year. Avoid dangerous dimly lit streets and expensive traffic citations by carrying lights on your commute. Several affordable options exist for the determined nocturnal cyclist. One basic difference between light sets is bulb type. Two common bulb types are halogen and LED.

Halogen bulbs emit a fairly bright yellow light; can run on regular alkaline batteries or rechargeable cells, and can be very affordable. Some high end performance lighting systems feature large rechargeable battery packs and high wattage, high discharge, halogen bulbs. The biggest downside to halogen lighting systems is a short battery life. Halogen bulbs run at relatively high temperatures, so significant battery energy is diffused as lamp heat during operation. The light beam itself can be fairly large, and the light beam itself is yellow in spectrum and closely resembles dim sunlight.

This is where Light Emitting Diodes (LED) come in. LED lamps are comparatively small in size, but unmatched in intensity and battery life. Because of their small size, the diode itself is very durable. Few light bulbs can handle the abuse that LED’s survive. Perhaps the best feature of LED lights is their affordability. Generally a few dollars more than halogen light sets, LED lights can feature up 100 times the battery life of halogen lights. With durability and battery life aside, the light emitted from LED’s is an intense white-blue light. Perhaps the only downside to Diode light is the beam size. LED lights produce very bright light, but the area lit is fairly small; a function of the small bulb size. For some, a small beam of blue light is an acceptable

So there you have it. Peak Adventures is featuring two light sets from Planet Bike: The 1200 Halogen light set for $17 and the Beamer 1 LED light set for $22. Both products come with batteries, mounts, and include the Planet Bike Blinky red LED taillight. Installation is always free with purchase of our light sets.
-Your bike mechanic, Ryan

Backpacks for Women

2009-11-10T10:00:00.000-08:00

I came across a very interesting topic that I had never really put a whole lot of thought into. It has to do with women specific backpacks. What exactly is a women’s specific backpack and why are they so different? After doing a little bit of research I found out what makes a backpack women’s specific. For you women reading this you might find this information to be helpful.

Backpacks made specifically for women are made for a better fit to the female body. Unlike backpacks made for men, the backpacks are made with a shorter distance between the shoulders. This helps to fit female’s narrow shoulders. The shoulder straps that are on the pack are curvier and smaller to prevent the straps from digging into the body. Since the female torso is smaller, the pack is shorter to fit the torso. This helps incredibly with the fit of the backpack. Another important piece on the backpack is that the waist belt is curved to fit the wider hips and smaller waist women have. Hopefully this information can help when the time comes for a new backpack.

-Matt

Come to our Open House

2009-11-09T15:47:00.000-08:00

The week of our open house has finally arrived. On Thursday November 12, 2009 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm Peak Adventures Challenge Center will open its doors once again for an evening of fun, climbing, challenges and games. The experienced staff will be there to help get you into a harness, belay as you climb, and it only costs $5 per person. Talk about a deal!

The Challenge Center has a rock wall, cargo net, platforms to jump off of, and cables to walk across. You can find an activity for all fitness levels, all ages, and interests. Pre-registration is encouraged because we want you to get some prizes too. All of you who register in advance will be entered to win a special prize- A snowshoe trip for 2 for the upcoming season. Just stop by the Peak Adventures office and sign up. You can just come by and pay at the door too, but that won’t get you that prize.

I know a lot of you walk by the Challenge Center muttering “I want to try that,” and your opportunity has finally arrived. This event is open to the public so be sure to bring your friends and family!

Please call the Peak Adventures office if you have any questions. 916.278.6321

-Valerie

A Day Spent with Wine

2009-11-09T13:46:00.000-08:00

I often get the question, “Since when is wine tasting considered a form of outdoor recreation?” It might not be one the most extreme trips that we offer, but Peak Adventures has a little something for everyone.

Peak Adventures typically offers two wine tasting trips during the year, one in the spring and one in the fall. Of course both times of year are beautiful, but my personal favorite is the fall. The leaves are changing color on all the surrounding trees, which makes for a stunning backdrop to the rolling vineyards. Wine tasting is very much apart of the outdoor recreation industry. Just driving along the tree-lined streets that lead to each winery makes you appreciate nature’s beauty. It gives people a chance to see the calmer, more sophisticated side to nature as opposed to a loud rushing river, or an intense climb up the side of a rock face.

The first weekend in October, I took three Sac State Students, all of which were foreign exchange students, one from Germany, one from Quebec, and one from Taiwan, to Napa for the day to visit three wonderful wineries. These three students also happened to be female so the theme of the trip turned into “a day with the girls”.

Our first stop was Robert Mondavi winery, where we took a Basic Wine Tasting tour. We got escorted to a private room with a beautiful oak table and a glass wall that showed us a perfect view of the vineyards. A wine educator talked us through a typical wine tasting. He showed us how to smell, swirl, and taste wine. He pointed out what to look for when tasting, for example, rolling the wine around in your mouth allows the wine to cover all of your taste buds and adds for a more enriching experience. This was a great way to start the day and we were feeling like wine tasting experts by the time we left.

The Franciscan was next. After tasting four different wines, we sat on the patio of the Franciscan winery to have lunch. The patio was a gorgeous; it was covered with roses and trestles and water fountains. For lunch, I had prepared a cheese and cracker platter, of course, along with a green salad, a fruit salad, and turkey croissant sandwiches. The girls and I chatted about how different our countries were, what we liked to do in our free time, and some great places to visit in California.

We finished the day with a visit to Sterling winery, which includes a tram ride up the side of a hill to get to the winery itself. It has a beautiful view and as soon as you get off the tram, there is a person there to greet you with your first wine pouring. After three more tastings and a stop at the gift shop, we headed back to our 12-passenger van to drive back to Sacramento. It was a good thing I was driving because it didn’t take long for the girls to fall asleep in the back seats.

If you are ever looking for something relaxing to do and want to see wonderful fall colors or spring flowers, consider joining Peak Adventures on our wine tasting trip and see a different side to outdoor recreation.

-Madison

Be Prepared, Pack a Pump

2009-11-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

One of the most useful tools any cyclist can carry while riding is an air pump. Pumps come in many shapes, sizes, and prices; and different kinds of pumps serve different kinds of needs. Most floor pumps are too bulky to carry around while riding, so a more compact “mini-pump” is often the best answer for the bicycle commuter or recreational rider. Once equipped with air power, the bicyclist can combine forces with handy inner-tube patches or sealants to handle life’s roadside punctures. Patch kits are a great way to reuse punctured inner-tubes, but patches are useless unless the rider has an air source. Also, sealant products like Slime require pressure in the tire to repair punctures, so sometimes repeated applications of air are needed for inner-tube sealants to work properly. For these reasons, carrying a pump is a great idea for repairing flats or just topping off. Most mini-pumps can be attached to the bicycle with an included frame bracket, but these pumps are also small enough to fit in backpacks, messenger bags, purses, pannier bags, etc…

Air pumps are a pretty good example of the old saying: “You get what you pay for”- Cheap, poorly constructed pumps (especially mini-pumps) are frustrating to use and are a good way to give yourself a sore arm while struggling to get the bike rolling again. Money spent on a well designed pump with quality materials will always be money well spent, especially when bicycle commuting.

Here is what to look for in a pump:
• You want to look for metal parts. Pumps that are all plastic are often built poorly and can be more frustrating than helpful. The head and lever on the end of the pump should be sturdy and feature as many metal parts as possible. Note- Not all plastic pumps are bad, but generally they are a cheap alternative and can tend to wear out and break-leaving you flat.
• Presta VS. Schrader- A good quality pump is compatible with both types of valve stems: the skinny metal presta valve (sometimes called a Euro valve) or the “standard” Schrader type that is generally rubber coated and looks like the valve stem of an average car tire. A nice feature to look for is automatic adjustment between the two valve stem types. However some pumps have two holes, one for each size; this works just as well- compatibility is the key factor.
• Size is important, very small pumps are easy to carry, but can take a very long time to inflate a tire to full pressure. Large pumps generally get the job done quickly, but can be bulky to mount on the bike and can be difficult to fit into smaller shoulder bags and backpacks. A good compromise is somewhere in the middle. Look for a pump that will fit on the bike or in your bag easily.
• Price: Pumps can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. Anything cheaper than $15 is probably not very reliable, so shoot for a pump that cost between $20 and $50.

And just to help you out, we have a recommendation: Topeak Master Blaster DX II mini - in stock at our store for only $20(don't forget-students always get 10% off retail). You can get more details about this pump here. Mention this blog when you buy a pump and get a free Peak Adventures patch kit.

-Ryan

Why I Love Working Here…

2009-10-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was my birthday and I had scheduled myself a pretty stress-free day; no meetings, no deadlines, and no programs on the course. I was working along just fine on my computer writing contracts for upcoming programs and had 10 minutes until my lunch break and BOOM! My computer wouldn’t let me create anymore PDF’s! I.T. came down to help but it ran into my lunch time. Then, I get a message that there is a problem with a client at the Challenge Center and I was the only one around that could deal with it. All I could think was, “Not on my birthday…all I want to do is go to lunch!”
Finally my computer was fixed so I hopped in the golf cart and rode out to the course. The teacher of the students pulled me over and said, “I need to talk to you.” I was putting on my professional face and started mentally preparing how I was going to calm his anger, when all of a sudden he put his arm around me and began the best version of “Happy Birthday” I have ever heard in my life! The whole group joined in (Thank you Grant High Criminal Justice Academy). I noticed that the ropes course staff was missing and thought how odd it was that they weren’t around singing too.
And then I saw it….water balloons, a ton of them. I booked out of there as fast as I could, but they got me…and got me good! Now some people would hate that, but I know it was just the staff showing me some birthday love. There must have been some serious planning behind this prank as well. They all know how much I love the attention. Thanks guys and I love you all! Just remember: Payback is a….well… it’s not nice.
-Valerie

My new favorite website

2009-10-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

During the past few months I have been on the lookout for online teambuilding resources for our leaders. About mid-summer I stumbled upon www.teampedia.net. This website has the potential for greatness! It is set up in the same format as www.wikipedia.org (which is currently my favorite website) and is a great resource of activities for ropes courses, summer camps, the classroom or even a board meeting.
There are lots of activities on this site that include icebreakers, energizers, trust activities, puzzles and teambuilding initiatives. You can search the site by category, group size, or even add your own game. All games are easy to read and formatted the same. There is also the option for variations or you can add your own edits.
Although I really like this website, there just aren’t that many activities. Their missions is “to become the world's largest collection of resources (e.g. warm-ups, icebreakers, and other group facilitation and training activities) to facilitate teamwork, teambuilding, and community.” They are far from being the largest collection, but if we all helped by adding new activities as we learned them, this site could quickly meet its mission.
My favorite activity is called Elephants in Denmark. Look it up and try it on your friends. They’ll be amazed by your ability to read their minds.
-Valerie

Trail Etiquette, yes it is real!

2009-10-01T11:37:00.001-07:00

For those of you who have been backpacking in the backcountry or just go out on day hikes, you’ll know what I am talking about. For those who have never been hiking on trails the concept may seem fairly simple. Follow the cleared area in the dirt enjoying a good view or two along the way, until you reach your destination. When out on the trail in popular areas or a few days hike into the backcountry, we all have come across other people either on foot, on horseback or mountain bikes. Even though some people don’t know about it or fail follow it, there is such a thing as trail etiquette. Here are some of the basic rules of trail etiquette that are important to follow:
1. When traveling on the trail do not take shortcuts or cut switchbacks.
2. Travel on the right side of the trail and pass on the left.
3. When stopping for a break, move off to the side of the trail on a durable surface. Do not move off the trail in a place with high vegetation. Try to avoid leaving signs that you have stopped in that location.
4. If hiking in a group on the trail, hike in a single file to limit the amount of damage to the area around the trail.
5. If hiking, yield to pack animals and bicyclists. Stop on the downhill side of the trail. It is easier for a hiker to move around than a horse, or bicyclist.
Hopefully these simple tips can help in improving your trail etiquette making for a more enjoyable experience out on the trail.
-Matt

Weather watch

2009-09-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

As I was riding to the office this morning I noticed the weather has recently been getting cooler rather quickly. This made me think of how important it is to pay attention to the weather when in the backcountry. You don’t have to be a meteorologist to see what the weather is doing to be able to predict what might be coming your way. Some simple things that I do when trying to make my predictions is to gain knowledge of the current area I am in. That means I try to do research about the seasonal norms. Does it usually rain this time of year? What is the normal wind direction? What is the average temperature? Next, I usually look at what the weather is currently doing. Are there obvious signs of rain in the area such as a dark sky or thunder clouds? Has the temperature changed, is it getting warmer or colder? Has the wind direction changed or increased in speed? Comparing the current weather conditions with the seasonal norms can be a tool to use when making decisions on the trail. Being aware of what is going on with the weather is better in preparing for a possible storm and also enhances the experience of being in nature.

-Matt