Contact: Louis DeVito                                                        
Tel. 412.779.2929 (cell)
ldevito@ventureoutdoors.org

VENTURE OUTDOORS ISN'T AFRAID OF THE DARK
Organization offers a variety of terrifying Halloween programs

(Pittsburgh, October 17) – Getting outside will be a frightening experience this season, as Venture Outdoors offers an array of Halloween-themed programs.

Specialty Program - Witch's Brew Tasting Hike

Venture Outdoors trip leaders will take participants on a spine-tingling hike, through a haunted cemetery. If participants survive, they will be given samples of seasonal brews and bloodcurdling treats at the trip leaders' residence. This program will be held on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Greentree. The cost is $25 for members and $40 for non-members.

Paddling - Werewolf Paddle

On a night like this one, when the full moon sheds a dim glow on the river, one never knows what sort of creatures could be lurking in the shadows. During a paddle on Friday, Oct. 26, program participants may just find out what creatures exist. The paddle begins with an instruction at 5:45 p.m. followed by the excursion onto the Allegheny River. The program runs until 8:30 p.m. at Downtown Kayak Pittsburgh. Cost is $25 for members and $45 for non-members. Participants must be at least 12 years old to use a solo kayak.

Biking - Halloween Haunted Bike Ride

This annual haunted bike ride will tour areas of Pittsburgh at an easy-pace, stopping at various haunted buildings to share some spooky local history. Participants are encouraged to ride in costume, but please refrain from garb that hangs near gears or restricts field of vision. Helmets are required. Participants are asked to bring a bike light if they have one, and bike rentals are available with advanced notice. This program will be held on Sunday, Oct. 28 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. along the Eliza Furnace Trail. Cost is $18 for members and $25 for non-members.

To register for any of these events, those interested need only call the Venture Outdoors office at 412.255.0564 or visit the Web site, where there is a complete listing of programs, at www.ventureoutdoors.org.

Venture Outdoors, a non-profit organization, seeks to transform the Pittsburgh region into a place where the outdoors is an integral part of our culture, our identity and our lifestyle. Venture Outdoors does this by increasing participation in outdoor recreational activity. This in turn creates a sense of community among participants, an increased awareness of the region's excellent quality of life, and a better understanding of and deeper appreciation for the environment and wilderness among the residents of and visitors to western Pennsylvania.

For more information, visit www.ventureoutdoors.org or call 412.255.0564.