Need help registering for a program? Have a general question about trips? Check out these frequently asked questions when registering for your next adventure and preparing to go outside with Venture Outdoors.
You can also check out specific FAQs regarding Kayak Pittsburgh.
How do I Register for a Trip?
1. Click “Login” on the top right corner.
2. Members and Current Users, sign in with username and password. If you do not have an account, click “create an account” and complete the account form.
3. Navigate to the “Activities Calendar” by clicking “Activities” and select the trip you’re interested in attending.
4. Click on the “Register” button – this will take you to the next page where you’ll select who will be attending the trip. All current members from your household will appear at the top of this page with boxes to the left of their names – click any/all of the boxes that apply for this trip.
5. Enter your payment information and promo code (if applicable). Then you must agree to the “Program Terms” – read throughly and once finished, click the checkbox. Finally, click “Register” and get ready for an adventure!
I am now registered for a trip. What are the next steps?
As the date of the trip approaches, you will receive an email with details including location, Trip Leader contact info, activity checklists, and trip expectations. You will typically receive this information 2-5 days ahead of time. Please remember to check your junk mail folder; our emails are sometimes automatically placed there.
What is the cost to register for a trip?
The description of each trip will include the cost. Venture Outdoors members receive a discounted rate which will be applied at check out when you are logged in to the website.
In order to make trips more accessible to families with small children, we have an “Under Three and Free” guideline. Children under three years of age are generally permitted on trips that are family-friendly or no more than two hours in length at no cost.
Contact the Venture Outdoors Office at 412-255-0564, X0 or registration@ventureoutdoors.org if you plan to bring a child less than three years of age on a trip. Staff will review the trip plan and proceed with registration as long as a reasonable accommodation can be made. For children over age three pricing is listed for each trip. If there is no separate listing, children pay the adult rate. Any children should be comfortable with the stated level of difficulty.
This guideline excludes Tyke Hikes, a trip series specifically designed for children ages 0
Do I have to be a Venture Outdoors member to participate?
No. Anyone is welcome to participate. Venture Outdoors receive a discounted rate.
Memberships start at just $15 a year and provide discounts of up to 40% off of trips. Read more about Membership or join.
Are trips dog-friendly?
Venture Outdoors loves dogs! However, some people don’t feel as comfortable around them as we do. If a trip is “dog-friendly” it will make note of it in the trip’s description. The number of dogs permitted is limited, AND dogs must be noted in the Accessibility Requirements/Notes section of your registration. Please remember that dogs must be kept on a leash unless in an “off-leash area.” Dogs are not allowed on any other Venture Outdoors trip.
Who attends trips?
Venture Outdoors attracts many different people from very young (infants go on our Tyke Hikes), to people 65 and up, and everyone in between. We get as many people outside as possible at any age or ability level! We also encourage families to attend together. It’s a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Can I attend a portion of a trip?
We think it is best to keep the group together, so we rarely choose to split up participants. Get in touch with us before the trip if you have any concerns about completing the entire trip.
What are the levels of difficulty?
Relaxed
Short distances at a slow pace. Generally flat terrain, well defined trails. No prior experience necessary. Perfect for beginners. Not too physically challenging. Appropriate for families of all ages.
Easy
Short distances at a slow pace. Relatively flat terrain, well defined trails, may involve some hills. No prior experience necessary. Perfect for beginners. Not too physically challenging.
Moderate
Varying distances at a steady pace. Varying terrain, generally established trails. Some prior experience required. Only for those in good physical condition. Physically challenging.
Advanced
Fast paced over a short distance or steady paced over a long distance. Varying terrain, may include off-trail sections, rough spots, unexpected obstacles. Prior experience required; Only for those in good physical condition. Physically challenging.
Strenuous
Fast paced over a short distance or steady paced over a long distance. Varying terrain, may include off-trail sections, rough spots, unexpected obstacles. Prior experience required. Only for those in good physical condition. Very physically challenging.
What if I need an accommodation?
If you need an accommodation to participate in activities due to a disability, please contact the Venture Outdoors office, 412-255-0564 or info@ventureoutdoors.org, at least five business days before the event. Venture Outdoors staff will gladly discuss how to accommodate your needs.
Do I need to sign anything?
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. Please sign the virtual waiver upon registration. You can also Download and print the Acknowledgement & Assumption of Risk Form.
Can I receive a discount if I bring my own equipment?
Discounts are available for personal gear used on trips. The type and specification required for personal equipment will be included in trip description. Some specialized trips require the use of Venture Outdoors gear. If you have personal gear to use that meets the gear description please select the discounted ticket when registering for the event. Please call the office at 412-255-0564 for questions regarding the use of personal equipment.
Is there anything I shouldn't bring on a trip?
Venture Outdoors does not allow electronic games, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, smoking, or firearms on any trip. Cell phone use is discouraged. Some trips may have more specific limitations.
What if there is rain or snow in the forecast?
Most of our trips are rain or shine with few exceptions. Possible causes for cancellation include severe weather, the Trip Leader determines that conditions exceed the group’s comfort level, or a potential travel hazard. If this determination can be made during regular office hours (9 AM – 5 PM, Monday – Friday), staff will call and email participants. If the determination is made outside of regular office hours, the Trip Leaders and on-call staff try to decide at least two hours in advance of the start time. Weather is variable, and the Trip Leader may opt to cancel at the trailhead or make modifications during the trip.