The History Of The Wilderness Adventures Section

By Arthur Peyser

Wilderness Adventures Section has finally come of age. We started out as a committee in 1980. The original planning meeting was held in a hot tub in Topanga Canyon. The purpose for creating this entity was to provide couples, families and individuals with opportunities for the enjoyment and conservation of the earth’s wilderness, mountains, wetlands, woodlands, seashores, rivers, deserts and plains. Under the guidance of Reg Allen as chair and Dick Ramirez as vice-chair, we started with 32 members who were willing to put in the time and effort needed to make us a viable organization. Our early outings were an eclectic mix ranging from a beginning backpack whose only prerequisite requirement was “No Backpack Experience Required” to a canoeing and wine tasting trip at Morro Bay with visits to hot tubs for relaxing after a full day of canoeing. All meals were provided and the cost was a mere $20.00. Our mix of outings hasn’t changed very much, only the price has risen. Even our well-known Wilshire Walk where we traipse from downtown LA to the ocean at Santa Monica is still going strong. This year will be our 22nd time as streetwalkers.

Our early newsletters gave advice on how to wax your Nordic (cross-country) skis, information on the free dehydrating facilities at the Dept. of Water & Power and the Willowbrook Senior Center. We included double crossword puzzles, cartoons and we disseminated pertinent information on legislation. We printed recipes, including one on how to prepare acorns for pancakes. With the advent of computers in our homes, the format has improved greatly. Today we can present wonderful photographs and a list of leaders almost a page long.

Our original small committee has grown to more than 200 members with the finest newsletter in the chapter (may I boast). Our trips continue to be a reflection of our members. We are interested in all facets of environmental care while we enjoy the outdoor experiences available to us. Our conservation concerns continue to keep us active politically. Our leaders have expanded their view to include trips out of the country as Chapter Fund-raisers.