September Recap — What’s coming up this October?
Hey VOCO! What an epic start to the year it has been! Between Begbie and Intro to Rock, you all brought the energy for what should be an amazing year outside. Now… here’s a recap and what’s coming up next!
Mount Begbie
The Mount Begbie trip was a huge success. We had a large turnout and high levels of excitement this year, along with a very empty gear bay over the weekend (which is how we knew it was going to be a good time). Thank you so much to everyone who came out and made it the great weekend that it was. An extra thanks to those who helped out those who were beginners to backpacking, you gave them their first of many great experiences in the backcountry and we thank you for that!
Intro to Rock
This past weekend we held the infamous intro to rock! If you’ve ever been to intro before you know its a guaranteed good time and it held true again this year. We saw some incredible climbing by both those new and experienced. The courage and willingness to learn and push yourselves was truly off the charts. We also saw some amazing (and sometimes blinding) disco / clubbing costumes around the crag. We loved seeing your enthusiasm for both the climbing and for the fun spirit of dressing up and having a good time outside. And of course, a night of camping at Idleback never disappoints. We would also like to send out a huge thank-you to all the volunteers who helped out, thanks for helping inspire new climbers, and keeping them safe!
What’s coming up?
Caving in the Kootenays
October 3rd-5th
This epic adventure will take place from October 3–5 and includes a full-day guided tour of Cody Caves along with two nights of camping in the Kootenays. Underground, we’ll be crawling, squeezing, rappelling, and learning about cave history and formations. The tour is guided, so no prior caving experience is required! After a long day underground using muscles that you didn’t even know existed, unwind in the beautiful hot pools at Ainsworth Hot Springs.
We are looking forward to this epic wave of excitement continuing into this coming weekend on the Caving in the Kootenays trip! The trip capacity has doubled and the newly added spots are selling fast so get your tickets while you still can! DM @will.tilden on Instagram to secure your spot.
Price: $184 per person — includes guided caving and camping, hot springs admission: + $20.
Intro to Bikepacking
October 4th-5th
We’re stoked to announce our first Intro to Bikepacking event! We’ll be doing a cruisy ride down the Okanagan Rail Trail and camping at Kekuli Bay Provincial Park. This trip is beginner-friendly and the perfect chance to give your touring rig a test run! Come ride, camp, and learn the basics of bikepacking with us. Can’t wait to see you out there!
There is also the option of only biking if you want to opt out of the camping!
Meet-up: Saturday at 10am in the UBCO courtyard
Campsite fee: $10 per person (paid when you register for this event on rubric
Info session: Thursday, Oct. 2 at 6:30pm – demo on how to pack a bike!
Mountain Riders/VOCO group shuttle day and tailgate BBQ
October 18th
12:30 pm - Sundown! (First trucks will head up at 1 pm)
Where: Gillard Forest Service Rd Parking lot (Drive about 5-10 minutes up the road, you will see the gravel parking lot on the left side)
Riding will consist of Blue to Double Black trails (groups will be made according to skill level). You will not be expected to ride out of your comfort zone. However, we ask that all riders be comfortable on Blue trails.
We recommend bringing extra protective equipment such as: Full-face helmet (Halfshells work too), Knee/Elbow pads, Goggles/Glasses, and Riding gloves.
BBQ will start around 6, depending on vibe. Dogs will be provided! Open to everyone, even if you aren’t biking!
Halloween Party at Gneiss
(More info to come)
Make sure you check out our Instagram and Events Page for more upcoming event details!
Can’t wait to see you all this October!
Cheers,
VOCO