When registering for activities sponsored by outfitters, please pay special attention to the registration deadlines for these individual activities, as they may be earlier than the close of registration for the International Event. As with limitations on the number of participants, these deadlines are imposed by the outfitters and are not under the control of Mosaic Outdoor Clubs of America.
Price: $85.00
Are you ready for a story to tell your grandkids? Are you looking for an adrenaline rush? THIS is for you. Via Ferrata literally means "iron road" in Italian, spawning from the first via ferratas built in the Dolomite mountain region of Italy during the First World War, to aid the movement of the Italian mountain infantry. It is a system of steel cables, metal rungs, and bridges connecting isolated areas with each other across airy gaps and ascending rock faces. Check out these details to decide if this event is right for you!
Persons interested must be registered by August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT) to be guaranteed a spot. This is a deadline imposed by the outfitter. There will be no refunds issued for this event after August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT). There is a limit of 14 people on this activity. It has been known to be popular in the past and will sell out quickly so it will be treated on a first come, first served basis. We will try to accommodate applicants after the 15th, but in no way can guarantee a place. Please also note that this event is weather dependent and may be cancelled by the outfitter for a full refund in the event of rain.
The Via Ferrata is a dangerous activity and the outfitter has prepared an overview to prepare participants. The overview is as follows:
Climb Duration: 3.5 – 5; hours depending on group size and ability
Difficulty Level: It‘s difficult to compare the Via Ferrata experience to anything else. It can be very demanding or not so demanding depending on one’s level of fitness. It can also be emotionally taxing depending on one’s level of comfort with heights. While this event does not have a weight limit, it is recommended that you be in good physical condition to participate.
It is NOT recommended for those who are trying to overcome an intense fear of heights. Please peruse the pictures below to see if this event is for you.
What to Wear: Dress in layers so you can make adjustments as you warm up and cool down. In general wear comfy, loose-fitting clothing that does not restrict your movement. Short shorts are not recommended and many climbers prefer to wear pants or capris to keep their knees covered.
Footwear: Sturdy athletic shoes or lightweight hiking shoes/boots. No sandals (including Chacos or Tevas), or FiveFingers shoes.
Bring With You: Waivers, small daypack, 2-quarts of water, trail snacks, sunscreen, camera (optional), rain gear (if necessary), fingerless gloves (optional).
Late Policy: Please arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled climb. Climbs depart on time and if you are late you will not be able to join the group and you will not receive a refund.
<Back to top>
Price: $95.00
If you’ve been known to play Batman, this is your event! Join us in experiencing a brand new canopy tour in West Virginia composed of 12 zip lines, platforms, Sky Bridges, and ends with a 40 foot rappel.
While there is a certain level of thrill involved, the 4-hour experience is designed to give participants ample exposure to the natural features of the North Fork Valley and to allow participants the time to appreciate these surroundings. It is not a high speed thrill ride nor is it a short-lived, add-on to a stay at a resort. The NFV Canopy Tour is a 4-hour, guided experience that allows you to explore Pendleton County in a completely new way. When you arrive, you’ll be treated to an instructed practice zip. The guides will be responsible for clipping you in and releasing you so all you need to worry about is lifting your feet and enjoying the ride!
Your experience covers over 2 miles of varied terrain. You will have over a mile of travel in the air. You will experience the North Fork Valley from ground level and up to 80 feet in the air. You will see spectacular rock outcroppings and the fertile soil of the valley along with countless geographic zones in between. You will have an opportunity to see numerous types of trees and other vegetation and learn a little about the different environments that you travel through. You will have memories that could last a lifetime.
This event has weight limitations. You must weigh between 70 and 250 pounds.
This is a HIGH DEMAND activity with only 10 spots and may sell out quickly. This will be booked on a first come, first served basis. Note: a second canopy tour has just been added due to the demand for this activity. Another 10 spots were opened. Persons interested must be registered by August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT) to be guaranteed a spot. This is a deadline imposed by the outfitter. There will be no refunds issued for this event after August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT). Late inquiries for this event between August 15th and August 22nd should be addressed to event@mosaicoutdoor.org. Please put the event title in the subject heading. We won't be able to guarantee a spot after the deadline, but we will do the best we can. NO ADDITIONS WILL BE MADE AFTER THE CLOSE OF REGISTRATION.
The following is an overview of the Canopy tour:
The first stage of the experience is a one-mile ride through Nelson Gap with spectacular views of Nelson Run and Nelson Rocks throughout the journey. We will gain just over 600 feet in elevation by the time we reach the starting point of the Canopy Tour.
The tour starts with a short hike to the practice zip line. Here we will demonstrate how to properly zip, brake and, should the situation warrant, how to properly rescue yourself along a zip line.
What should you anticipate as you approach the first zip line? You will be standing on a platform just a couple feet above the ground; however, off to your left, the hillside drops away very steeply as you prepare to zip across the upper portion of a natural bowl. While you are starting near the ground you will be nearly 30 feet in the air as you ride over the middle of the bowl and approach the second platform on the other side.
The zip lines get progressively longer and higher as you "switchback" your way down the upper bowl. At each platform you will have ample opportunity to catch your breath and enjoy the spectacular views of the North Fork Valley. Guides will point out significant natural features unique to each platform and will try to answer any questions you might have concerning your surroundings.
The Judy Rocks section of the tour ends with a ground landing and an opportunity to get a quick drink of water and snack before continuing. The Nelson Run section begins with an 80-foot long Sky Bridge entrance; starting just a few feet off of the ground, but ending nearly 40 feet in the air the bridge takes advantage of the steep terrain allowing you to gain the height necessary without exerting much effort.
The Nelson Run section zips back and forth across the lower bowl. While not as wide as the upper bowl, the lower bowl is even steeper which provides you with the greatest heights while zipping across the bowl. Be sure to take the time and opportunity to view trees from the top down for a change.
Following five more zips and two more bridges the NFV Canopy Tour is nearing its end. The tour ends with a 40-foot rappel out of the final tree. Here you will experience the same type of thrill that some of the rock climbers who are over on Nelson Rocks are experiencing.
Price: $45.00
Join us for a relaxing day on the river interspersed with some exciting shots of adrenaline. This 6.5 mile kayak on the south branch of the Potomac River has a little something for everyone. At the outfitters, the beginners may start with an instructional talk on how to paddle the river in the kayak. THIS IS A NON-GUIDED TRIP, but everyone will be provided with a map. This section of the river is primarily class I with approximately 4-5 short sections of more exciting class II rapids. Be prepared to get wet! This trip should take about 3 hours with a leisurely group paddle. The class II sections can be a bit challenging, but are very doable.
OVERVIEW
The first set of rapids you will come to is the O-HELL section. This area was designed by engineers who placed six big boulders in the middle of the river to agitate the water and introduce oxygen for the fish of the nearby hatchery. These boulders create hydraulics which will cause an undertow. For this reason, this section should be traversed either to the right or left banks. The left bank will be exciting, but still more mellow than the right bank. If you choose to challenge this section again, you may portage your kayak up the left bank to face the rapid again to see who wins the second time around.
The second set of rapids is called the 70/30. 70% of people will dump and 30% will sail clear through. The best way to approach this section is through the middle as the rapids converge in a Y. If you’re part of the 70 and not the 30, there is an area to the left where you can walk back and try to conquer it again.
You pass two more smaller rapids, Moe and Curly, but give them the respect they’re due. The last and final kicker is Larry, known to dump 90% of people. After Larry, the orange painted take out point will come up fast and the river picks up speed as well. Make sure you don’t sail past!
KEEP YOUR EYES OUT FOR EAGLES WHEN YOU PASS THE TWO CLIFFS ON THIS ROUTE! Persons interested must be registered by August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT) to be guaranteed a spot. This is a deadline imposed by the outfitter. There will be no refunds issued for this event after August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT). Late inquiries for this event between August 15th and August 22nd should be addressed to event@mosaicoutdoor.org. Please put the event title in the subject heading. We won't be able to guarantee a spot after the deadline, but we will do the best we can. NO ADDITIONS WILL BE MADE AFTER THE CLOSE OF REGISTRATION.
Price: $55.00
Join us for a ride with Yokum Stables to the top of Seneca Rocks. You will span an hour and a half on the trail to the top of the ridge with two rest stops for the horses and riders. The riders will be able to dismount and scramble out to the rocks or walk out onto the U.S. Forest Service’s viewing platform. This is a guided ride.
After the horseback ride, there will be ample time for a lunch break. The bus will continue on to Smokehole Caverns for an hour guided cavern tour. You can view the world’s longest ribbon stalactite and the crystal cave coral pool.
For the horseback riding, the outfitter has a policy of NO open toed shoes. Make sure you have the appropriate footwear so the outfitter does not forbid you from participating on the ride. There is a weight limit on this event of 265 pounds. The outfitter will provide saddle bags on the horses for your items. Make sure you bring your camera for the views at the top!
When you reach the caverns, bear in mind that the temperature in the cavern is a steady 56 degrees Fahrenheit. A sweatshirt or light jacket is recommended.
Persons interested must be registered by August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT) to be guaranteed a spot. This is a deadline imposed by the outfitter. There will be no refunds issued for this event after August 14th 11:59 pm (PDT). Late inquiries for this event between August 15th and August 22nd should be addressed to event@mosaicoutdoor.org. Please put the event title in the subject heading. We won't be able to guarantee a spot after the deadline, but we will do the best we can. This event is limited to 14 people. NO ADDITIONS WILL BE MADE AFTER THE CLOSE OF REGISTRATION.
The view from Raven Rocks is one of the best in the area. Although the distance is only 5.5 miles with a vertical gain of 1,530ft, as you can see from the elevation profile, there are three strenuous ascents on this out and back hike. Raven Rocks is also a popular area with rock climbers, as it can be accessed by a road 0.4 miles from the east. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear, as the hike that remains entirely on the white blazed Appalachian Trail, is very rocky. The hike begins on the AT, crosses the first ridge, and then makes several switchbacks. The next ridge has a nice view of the Winchester Valley before descending to Raven Rocks Hollow stream. The final ascent will bring you along the VA/WV border before arriving at the beautiful views of Raven Rocks.
The distance of this hike is 5.5 miles with an elevation gain of 1,530 ft
The time for this hike is 4 hours with half an hour for lunch.
This is an approximate profile of the hike. What makes this hike more difficult is the three fairly steep ascents you’ll note in the profile.
This short out and back hike has a beautiful waterfall at the top of Hollow Brook, with a nice walk up to the summit of Buzzard Hill as well. Close to the Washington D.C. metro area, this is another hike that is perfect when you can’t make it out to the bigger mountains.
At only 3.8 miles, this is fun for all skill levels.
The distance of this hike is 3.8 miles with an elevation gain of 860 ft.
The time for this hike is 3-4 hours with a half hour for lunch.
Both the distance and time may have to be altered depending on the drop off point. The access to the trail head is limited and it will require volunteers to drive people in their personal cars to this event. The gravel road has been judged to be difficult for a van to traverse and impassable for a bus.
This is an approximate profile of the Hollow Brook hike. While the distance is manageable and the ascents are varied, the ascent to the summit is the steepest climb. The waterfall is beautiful, but its flow will depend on the weather and amount of rainfall. This hike rates as a moderate due to the steeper climbs, some slippery terrain, and a water crossing.
The Pond Run hike is a shortened version of the Sugar Knob hike up Pond Run Trail and down Racer Camp Hollow Trail and has some of the best stream scenery in the George Washington National Forest. This is one of several great out and back trails in the Great North Mountain Area. While this hike does not have the great vistas as payoffs like other hikes, the serenity and scenery of this hike is its own reward.
The distance for this hike is 5-7 miles with an elevation gain of approximately 1000 ft. This total will be at the discretion of the leader. You will hike in about 2.5 - 3.5 miles before retracing your steps along the stream.
The time for this hike is 4-5 hours with a half an hour for lunch.
This is an approximate profile of the pond run hike. This hike is a shortened version of the original Sugar Knob hike and is an out and back instead of a loop. The hike will follow the stream and the gradient is gradual. What makes this hike a moderate hike is the terrain with multiple stream crossings and rocky areas. Hiking boots are a must, preferably water proof ones. Packing dry socks may be a good idea.
Price: $5.00
The BLANDY EXPERIMENTAL FARM AND VIRGINIA ARBORETUM is a nature lover’s paradise. Join us for a hike through beautiful gardens maintained by this branch of the University of Virginia. Stroll through the extensive, and LEGAL, HERBACEOUS GARDENS which offer a variety of perennials and shrubs grown for specific purposes such as flavor; fragrance; medicinal qualities; dyes; and industrial, cosmetic and household uses. Continue on to the POLLINATION GARDEN which offers visitors a place to observe butterflies, bees, hummingbirds and other pollinators visiting their favorite flowers. The KIOSK ANNUAL DISPLAY GARDEN will be planted with bright annuals that provide nectar for butterflies and hummingbirds. Have fun exploring The ZOO GARDEN to discover plants with animal names. The WALTER FLORY MEMORIAL IRIS COLLECTION features more than 80 award winning irises donated to the Arboretum by the American Iris Society. The Woodland phlox is one of the many beautiful plants in the VIRGINIA NATIVE GARDEN which showcases native species and cultivars of native species. The DWARF CONIFER COLLECTION features many species of conifers you may recognize like pine and spruce, only in small compact forms. The COURTYARD GARDEN protects its species from the wind and the DAYLILY COLLECTION features more than ninety beautiful varieties as long as the deer don’t get there first!
Price: $15.00
Here’s your opportunity to learn about the City of Winchester located at the top of the Shenandoah Valley. The tour begins at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley to explore the art, history and culture of the region, and don’t miss the spectacular gardens. Then head downtown to enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants on the Old Town Pedestrian Mall or bring a bag lunch from camp. In the afternoon you can choose from a variety of historic centers including the Civil War Museum, The George Washington Office and Museum, and Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters. Or, you can also take a leisurely walk around town. The drop off/pick up point will be the visitor center which houses the civil war orientation center to help you decide your walking tour.
Please note that your fee will cover entrance to the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley museum, house, and gardens ONLY. The rest of the Winchester visits will be at your own discretion and you need to pay at the door. Each of the four museums (Civil War Museum, Stonewall Jackson's house, Washington's Headquarters, and the Abrams house) have an admission price of $5. A $10 block ticket will get you into the three big ones: Stonewall Jackson's House, Washington's Headquarters, and the Abrams House. The Patsy Cline Home/Museum opens August 2nd and the admission is $6. The site of Fort Loudoun or the Kernstown Battlefield are free.
Stay in camp and enjoy the facilities Rim Rock has to offer. Whether you enjoy tennis, basketball, volleyball, bocce ball, or would like to lay on the lawn and picture cloud shapes, this option gives you the chance to really enjoy the WV mountain air.
Bring your own bike or borrow a camp bike (subject to availability) to cycle along Capon River Road from the camp gate north to the town of Capon Bridge, a 15 mile round trip. You ride beside the river most of the way passing many rural homes. Still have more energy? Add five miles by cycling south to the tiny community of Yellow Springs, then back to camp.
Feel like a lazy half day? Walk a tube to the river, float for 40 mins to the other end of camp, and walk it out. Other options of a longer float may be possible but will be determined at camp and based on water levels. Bear in mind that the water may be too low for any type of tubing.
The camp offers a variety of trails across the river. Some are easy and some are moderate. You’ll want to bring a change of socks or shoes for the river crossing as there is no bridge. Water shoes are recommended for the water crossing.
Enjoy some aquatic time in one of two of Rim Rock’s solar heated pools.
Enjoy some paddling on Rim Rock’s lake. The camp offers the use of 12 kayaks so first come, first served will be in effect as will the "please share" rule.