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Community Programs FAQ

How can I get more details about the trip I signed up for?

Within 1-3 days before the trip, you’ll receive an email from our team. They’ll provide specific meet up location, what-to-expect, and trip leader contact info. Please remember to check your junk mail folder; our emails are sometimes automatically placed there.

Will trips be canceled due to weather?

Outings are held in all types of weather, excluding thunderstorms. Unless contacted by our staff, it should be assumed that the outing will go on as planned. Our staff may cancel anytime leading up to the start time, and they will make every reasonable attempt to inform participants as soon as a decision is made.

If we must cancel due to weather our staff will contact you to either reschedule, receive a refund, or you may opt to turn your ticket price into a donation to Venture Outdoors.

If I cancel my trip can I get a refund?

To receive a refund on an event, cancellations must be made at least three business days (Monday – Friday) in advance of the outing. For example, you must cancel no later than 5:00 PM on Tuesday for the following weekend’s trips by emailing alyssa@ventureoutdoors.org or calling 412-255-0564 ext. 229.

Cancellations with insufficient notice, no-shows, and late arrivals who have missed the group’s departure will not receive a refund. Refunds are issued in the form of original payment, unless requested otherwise.

Reservations are transferable to other participants. Please notify Venture Outdoors of the transfer in advance of the outing.

Shop purchases are all final. No refunds or returns.

Refunds and cancellations are different for Summer Camps. See Summer Camp policies here.

Can I bring my dog?

Venture Outdoors loves dogs! However, some people don’t feel as comfortable around them as we do.

Service animals are permitted on all Venture Outdoors trips. Pets are not allowed on any trip unless a trip is specified as a dog-friendly outing. Dogs must be kept on a leash during the activity unless in an off-leash area.

What if I can't afford a trip?

Venture Outdoors works to remove barriers to outdoor experiences, including financial barriers. Reach out to alyssa@ventureoutdoors.org to see about reduced or free payment options.

Do I have to be a Venture Outdoors member to join a trip?

Nope, anyone can join our trips.

Venture Outdoors members do receive a discount on trips, and have access to some addition trips and perks. Join today!

What if I need an accommodation?

Our mission is to remove barrier that prevent people from getting outdoors. Please let us know what you need, and we’ll do our best to make it happen. Contact alyssa@ventureoutdoors.org  or call 412-255-0564

We currently have adaptive gear for kayaking, hiking, and fishing.

Do I need to sign a waiver?

Yes. All participants must sign an Acknowledgement & Assumption of Risk Form before the start of a trip. Those under age 18 must have a parent or guardian sign for them. Save time and headache, please sign the virtual waiver sent to you via email in advance.

How difficult are these trips?

The level of difficulty is listed on the event page. Participants must agree to skill and capability expectations described.If the Trip Leader Team deems that a participant does not meet the Level of Difficulty criteria, that person may be turned away at the trailhead.

Difficulty Levels

Level 1 – Relaxed 

  • Short distances (1-2 mi) at a leisurely pace; Predominantly flat, hardened or surfaced terrain with well-defined trails; Suitable for beginners with no prior activity experience; Offers frequent rest breaks; Suitable for all ages; Minimal physical challenge for most participants. 

 

Level 2 – Easy 

  • Short distances at a manageable pace; Mostly flat terrain with well-defined trails, occasional hills with planned breaks; Suitable for beginners; Provides a gentle physical challenge for most participants. 

 

Level 3 – Moderate 

  • Varying distances at a steady pace; Varied terrain includes rocks, roots, and hills on established trails; Requires some prior activity experience; Intended for those in decent physical condition; Presents a moderate physical challenge for most participants. 

 

Level 4 – Vigorous 

  • Fast-paced over a short distance or steady-paced over a longer distance; Varied terrain, including off-trail sections, rough spots, and long climbs; Requires fitness level and/or prior experience to sustain a moderate pace; Meant for those in good physical condition; challenging to most participants. 

 

Level 5 – Strenuous 

  • Faster-paced over a long distance; Challenging terrain with off-trail sections, rough spots, and unexpected obstacles; Requires prior experience in the activity; Intended for individuals in excellent physical condition; Represents the highest level of physical challenge. 

 

 

What should I bring on a trip?

Within a week leading up to a trip, you can expect to receive a pre-trip email containing details including what you should bring on a trip. You should always plan to bring water and wear comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes.

 

 

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