Best Outdoor Recreation Clubs In Los Angeles
Although running is a popular hobby those who need to clear their busy minds, it's also a great opportunity to meet new people. Check out these affordable, local clubs perfect for Angelenos. Whether you're a mom looking to get in motion or an average Joe training for your first marathon, these clubs offer the perfect partners from all over the area.
Sierra Club: West Los Angeles Group
Culver City Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Uruapan Room
4117 Overland Ave.
Culver City, CA 90230
(213) 387-4287
Price: annual membership $25 to $39
angeles2.sierraclub.org
The Sierra Club is one of the oldest, most well-respected and active wilderness clubs in the nation, and the Los Angeles chapter serves more than 40,000 members. Take part in environmental activities, from travel excursions to hiking and rock-climbing trips to grassroots ecological events without paying the membership fee. Wilderness outings are offered almost daily throughout the year. All ages and ability levels can find company in this well-established club.
Sierra Club: 20s and 30s Section
3435 Wilshire Blvd #320
Los Angeles, CA 90010-1904
(213) 387-4287
www.sc2030.org
Outdoor lovers in their 20s and 30s are sure to find like-minded nature lovers in this activities club. Regular monthly hikes are held specifically for newcomers, but newcomers are also welcome to join any of this club's events. These include sailing cruises to the Channel Islands, camping in Death Valley, kayaking and even white-water rafting at Kern River. To become a full-fledged, voting member, guests must become registered, dues-paying members of the Sierra Club. However, you do not need to be a member of the Sierra Club to participate in the 20s and 30s Section events.
Outdoors Club.org
Price: $25 per year
www.outdoorsclub.org
OutdoorsClub.org is one of L.A.'s most widely visited sites for outdoor athletes, allowing members to post spontaneous outings and well-planned excursions alike. Outdoor pursuits are available to all ability levels all over the country, but members can specify which region they are interested in meeting up with activity partners. Conversation forums facilitate more than just meet-ups; guests may also post personal guides and tips about local landmarks for those looking for an independent adventure.
Trail Runners' Club
Across from the Pacific Palisades High School Track
15777 Bowdoin St.
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
(310) 459-3757
Price: $45 per year, first run is free
trailrunnersclub.com
Trail Runners' Club meets bright and early every Sunday morning and frequents more than 40 trails, virtually one for each week of the year. With members from every ability and skill level, the group's trails cover between eight and 12 miles. Runners must bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout the trail. Water is not provided, and this group powers through extreme heat and stormy weather alike. Snacks are provided at the end of the trail, and occasionally, the group opts to head out for a Sunday morning breakfast.
Moms in Motion
Price: $75 for the initial year/$45 each year thereafter
www.momsinmotionla.com
L.A. moms looking for workout buddies, an affordable fitness program or just a steady time and place to get away and clear their minds find company in this club. Each Saturday morning, one team meets in Encino and another in L.A.'s beautiful Griffith park for non-competitive training. The club is open to all experience levels and regularly trains for local 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon events. A new team devoted to hiking is set to begin right away in 2013.
Danielle Farve is a freelance writer covering all things Los Angeles. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
