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  • CIWC Helen Link Daffodil Gardens Tour and Lunch - April 11, 2026

    • April 11, 2026
    • 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Goethe Link Observatory property 8034 Observatory Lane Martinsville IN 46151
    • 3
    Register
    Tour a "naturalized daffodil garden" that was started in the 1940's by Helen Goethe, a nurse and botonist and wife of astronomer Dr. Link, located on the observatory property, owned by Indiana University. Managed by the Indiana Daffodil Society who will have members there to answer questions. Easy walk through several acres of daffodils. Great opportunity for nature photographers. Observatory will likely be open to public. Finish up with lunch at Gather A'Round BBQ Restaurant in Martinsvile IN
    Difficulty Level: Easy
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  • CIWC Day Hike the Fairfield and Templeton Creek Trails at Mounds State Recreation Area on Brookville Lake - April 24, 2026

    • April 24, 2026
    • 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Meet at Templeton Creek Trailhead/Shelterhouse Parking near the entrance to the Mounds SRA at Brookville Lake Templeton Creek Trailhead, Templeton Creek Rd, Brookville, Indiana; GPS 39.49591, -84.95761
    • 7
    Register

    CIWC Day Hike the Fairfield and Templeton Creek Trails at Mounds State Recreation Area on Brookville Lake -

    April 24, 2026

    April 24, 2026, at Meet at Templeton Creek Trailhead/Shelter house Parking near the entrance to the Mounds SRA at Brookville Lake Templeton Creek Trailhead, Templeton Creek Rd, Brookville, Indiana; GPS 39.49591, -84.95761

    Open to the Public

    Time: 3:30 pm Meeting | 3:45 pm Departure | 6:00 pm Return

    Trip Leader: Nancy Myers

    We will carpool to the Fairfield Trailhead on the east side of the Fairfield Causeway and hike south to the Templeton Trailhead, about 4 miles. This is hike 1 of 3 consecutive hikes at Brookville Lake. You may participate in 1,2, or all 3 hikes. If you complete all 3 hikes, you will have completed the Adena Trace Trail.

    Transportation Plan: This is a one-way hike that requires voluntary shuttling. Details will be worked out at the designated meeting location.

    Required Gear/Clothing: These trails are rated moderate by the DNR. They may be slick, muddy, rooty, and may have fallen trees over the trail. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. There will be creek crossings, including one that requires stepping on concrete pilings. Bring at least 1 liter of water and be prepared for falling evening temperatures and possible rain.

    Cell Service Availability: Spotty

    Emergency Exit Plan: Call 911 for serious accidents. Return to vehicles as needed.

    Questions? Contact: ciwcinfo@gmail.com

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  • CIWC Day Hike the Wolf Creek Trail at Mounds State Recreation Area on Brookville Lake - April 25, 2026

    • April 25, 2026
    • 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
    • Meet at the Brookville Dam Spillway Parking. Brookville Dam Spillway/Tailwater Parking, Brookville, Indiana. GPS 39.43690, -85.00192
    • 9
    Register

    CIWC Day Hike the Wolf Creek Trail at Mounds State Recreation Area on Brookville Lake - April 25, 2026

    April 25, 2026, at Meet at the Brookville Dam Spillway Parking. Brookville Dam Spillway/Tailwater Parking, Brookville, Indiana. GPS 39.43690, -85.00192

    Open to the Public

    Time: 8:30 am Meeting | 8:40 am Departure | 6:00 pm Return

    Trip Leader: Nancy Myers

    We will carpool to the gravel parking area on the west side of the Fairfield Causeway and hike the Wolf Creek Trail south to the Dam Spillway Parking. The Hoosiers Hikers Council gives 11 miles for Wolf Creek. The Brookville Lake DNR property map says 16.5 miles. I estimate the trail to be 14 miles. This is hike 2 of 3 consecutive hikes at Brookville Lake. You may participate in 1, 2, or all 3 hikes. If you complete all 3 hikes, you will have completed the Adena Trace Trail.

    Transportation Plan: This is a one-way hike that requires voluntary shuttling. Details will be worked out at the designated meeting location.

    Required Gear/Clothing: This trail is rated rugged by the DNR. It may be slick, muddy, rooty, and may have fallen trees over the trail. There will be multiple creek crossings. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Bring 3 liters of water and be prepared for falling temperatures and possible rain. Each hiker should carry a whistle and the Ten Essentials, including their own emergency first aid kit and any personal meds required for a 24-hour period. Although we are hiking along the reservoir, it is generally inaccessible from the trail. Creek water can be filtered, but it may be very silty or muddy. Bring a lunch, multiple snacks for a full day of hiking, and electrolytes. An extra pair of socks in a sealed bag is recommended.

    Cell Service Availability: Spotty

    Emergency Exit Plan: There are NO ROAD CROSSINGS on this trail. It is important that each hiker is prepared for unexpected bad weather and/or delays as there are no buildings or shelters along this trail. Assistance or evacuation by an emergency team will not be immediate. There is a side trail at about the midway point that can be used for emergency evacuation. It is over 2 miles on Midway Trail to a parking area. We will NOT have a vehicle there, but the Midway trail is an option for emergencies near the middle of our hike.

    Questions? Contact: ciwcinfo@gmail.com

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  • CIWC Day Hike four trails at Mounds State Recreation Area on Brookville Lake - April 26, 2026

    • April 26, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Meet at Templeton Creek Trailhead/Shelterhouse Parking near the entrance to the Mounds SRA at Brookville Lake. Templeton Creek Trailhead, Templeton Creek Rd, Brookville, Indiana; GPS 39.49591, -84.95761
    • 7
    Register

    CIWC Day Hike four trails at Mounds State Recreation Area on Brookville Lake - April 26, 2026

    April 26, 2026, at Meet at Templeton Creek Trailhead/Shelter house Parking near the entrance to the Mounds SRA at Brookville Lake. Templeton Creek Trailhead, Templeton Creek Rd, Brookville, Indiana; GPS 39.49591, -84.95761

    Open to the Public

    Time: 9:00 am Meeting | 9:15 am Departure | 4:00 pm Return

    Trip Leader: Nancy Myers

    This is a one-way hike of 4 trails. We will car pool to the small Bonwell Trailhead parking. If not enough spaces, we will park at the Brookville Overlook Recreation Area Parking. We will hike north about 11 miles to the Templeton Trailhead. We will be hiking the Bonwell, Eagle, Woodland, and Garr Hill trails. This is hike 3 of 3 consecutive hikes at Brookville Lake. You may participate in 1, 2, or all 3 hikes. If you complete all 3 hikes, you will have completed the Adena Trace Trail.

    Transportation Plan: This is a one way hike that requires voluntary shuttling. Details will be worked out at the designated meeting location.

    Required Gear/Clothing: These trails are rated moderate by the DNR. They may be slick, muddy, rooty, and may have fallen trees over the trail. There will be multiple creek crossings. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Bring 3 liters of water and be prepared for falling temperatures and possible rain. Each hiker should carry a whistle and the Ten Essentials, including their own emergency first aid kit and personal meds. Bring a lunch, multiple snacks for a full day of hiking, and electrolytes. An extra pair of socks in a sealed bag is recommended.

    Cell Service Availability: Spotty

    Emergency Exit Plan: Call 911 for serious accidents or emergencies. We will have several road crossings and parking areas on this hike. Our longest trail section will be the 5 mile Woodland trail between the south end of the Scenic bike trail and the Garr Hill Boat Ramp parking area. We will NOT have a vehicle at either of those locations. It is important that each hiker is prepared for unexpected bad weather as we may be 5 miles from one of our vehicles.

    Questions? Contact: ciwcinfo@gmail.com

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  • Beginner Backpacking Trip: Shades State Park, Waveland, IN, May 1-3, 2026

    • May 01, 2026
    • May 03, 2026
    • Shades SP, 7751 S. 890 W. Waveland, IN 47989
    Register

    Beginners Backpacking Trip

    Shades State Park, Waveland, IN

    May 1-3, 2026


    Trip Leaders:  John South and Steve Kinch

    Type of Trip: Beginner Backpacking/Hiking

    Contact:  ciwcinfo@gmail.com

    Cost: $40 (non Refundable) - 

    What is Provided:

    • 1. Saturday Breakfast and Dinner and Sunday Breakfast. 
    • 2. The use of club gear. 
    • 3. A camp site reservation. 
    • Not provided-Friday supper, Saturday or Sunday lunch and snacks for the trail.

      Adults Only

      Maximum number: 8

      Difficulty: Beginner

      Rain Date: TBD

      Shades State Park has a 'backcountry camp site' that is perfect for a beginning overnight trip! 

      Trip Plan:

      We will meet in Shades State Park on Friday evening at 6:30. Distribute the club gear and food and backpack 3.0 miles to our campsite. After Saturday breakfast we will explore the park trails. Lunch is on your own on the trail. Saturday evening meal will be provided along with Sunday breakfast. After breakfast we will break camp and hike back to our vehicles.

      Per club policy, participants will help carry club gear, cook, cleanup, gather water and other assorted camp duties.

      Topics of discussion will include tent site selection and camp set up, trail etiquette, leave no trace, water filtration, hanging food bags, and other backpacking related topics.

      Don’t have gear? No worries, CIWC has gear you can borrow: Tents, backpacks and other club gear such as stoves and water filters. Suggested gear lists and other information will be provided by your trip leaders. Please bring your own sleeping bags and sleeping pads.

      All trip participants will be expected to submit a medical form, sign a waiver and complete emergency information documents prior to participation.

      All trip participants must fill out and submit a

      CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

      Questions? Contact CIWCinfo@gmail.com


      Show details

    • Beginner Backpacking Trip: Shades State Park, Waveland, IN, May 9-10, 2026

      • May 09, 2026
      • May 10, 2026
      • Shades SP, 7751 S. 890 W. Waveland, IN 47989
      Register

      Beginners Backpacking Trip

      Shades State Park, Waveland, IN

      May 9-10, 2026


      Trip Leaders:  Phyllis Legan and Wendy Brinson

      Type of Trip: Backpacking/Hiking

      Contact:  ciwcinfo@gmail.com

      Cost: $40 (non Refundable) - Saturday Dinner and Sunday Breakfast provided; Use of club gear - Bring lunch and snacks for the trail

      Adults Only

      Maximum number: 8

      Difficulty: Beginner

      Rain Date: TBD

      Shades State Park has a 'backcountry camp site' that is perfect for a beginning overnight trip! 

      We will meet at the Hickory Parking Lot in Shades State Park. We will get acquainted and do some light hiking with maps, snacks and water bottles. We will then make our way back to the parking lot to prepare for our hike to the back-country. Equipment will be disbursed between all hikers.

      Backpacks will be checked for weight distribution and fit. Everything we will need for our overnight experience will be carried in our backpacks over a moderate 2.5 mile trail to our camping area.

      At the campsite we will work together to prepare our tent and kitchen sites while reviewing some things to check for when selecting your tent site. We will hike to the river and filter some water using a backpacking filter system. After we return to our campsites, we will prepare our backpacking meals, using a few different types of backpack stoves. Additional activities will include, backcountry food storage and hanging food bags and making a campfire. Then we will enjoy some camaraderie around our campfire. Topics of discussion will include Leave No Trace principles, general trail etiquette, and backcountry hygiene. We may share our hiking and backpacking experiences, bucket lists, and discuss our day's events.

      In the morning, we will heat up water for everyone to have their coffee, tea, oatmeal, etc. After breakfast we will break camp using leave no trace techniques and hike back to the parking lot. Anyone who would like to continue hiking may do so on their own.

      You can Google Shades State Park for a map of the trails and Park information. The Indiana State Park Entrance Fee is the responsibility of each participant. This is a per vehicle fee, dependent on your state of residence and is covered if you have a 2024 Indiana State Park pass when you enter. You may ask for a Park Map when you enter, but we will have a couple of additional maps available as well.

      Don’t have gear? That’s no problem as CIWC has tents and backpacks you can borrow. We share some club-provided group gear, such as stoves, fuel and water filters. Suggested gear list will be provided by your trip leaders.

      Saturday evening meal and Sunday morning breakfast will be provided. This food will be provided when we meet at the park as you will carry your own food plus share responsibility for carrying group equipment. Participants will bring their own lunch, snack and drink items.

      All trip participants will be expected to submit a medical form, sign a waiver and complete emergency information documents prior to participation.


      All trip participants must fill out and submit a

      CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

      Questions? Contact CIWCinfo@gmail.com


      Show details

    • CIWC Bike the Nickel Plate Trail - May 9, 2026

      • May 09, 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Richey Woods Nature Preserve Parking Lot 10410 Hague Rd, Fishers
      • 10
      Register
      Bike Riding
      Difficulty Level: Easy
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    • Beginner Backpacking Trip: Salamonie Lake State Park, Waveland, IN, May 23-24, 2026

      • May 23, 2026
      • May 24, 2026
      • 9214 W. Lost Bridge West Andrews, IN 46702
      Register

      Beginners Backpacking Trip

      Salamonie Lake State Park, Andrews, IN

      May 23-24, 2026


      Trip Leaders:  Nancy Myers and Diana Moss

      Type of Trip: Beginner Backpacking/Hiking

      Contact:  ciwcinfo@gmail.com

      Cost: $40 (non Refundable) - 

      What is Provided:

      • 1. Saturday Dinner and Sunday Breakfast. 
      • 2. The use of club gear. 
      • 3. A camp site reservation. 
      • Not provided - Saturday or Sunday lunch and snacks for the trail.

        Adults Only

        Maximum number: 8

        Difficulty: Beginner

        Rain Date: June 6-7, 2026

        Trip Plan:

        We will hike into a primitive back country campsite on the Bloodroot Trail at Salamonie Lake. Our exact meeting location at Salamonie Lake, between Wabash and Huntington, will be provided after registration. The Indiana DNR Entrance Fee is the responsibility of each participant. This is a per vehicle fee, dependent on your state of residence and is covered if you have a 2026 Indiana State Park pass when you enter. Passes may be purchased at the entrance gate.

        At the meeting location we will get acquainted and distribute evening and breakfast meals along with any borrowed gear. Backpacks will be checked for weight distribution and fit. Everything we will need for our overnight experience will be carried in our backpacks over a moderate trail to our camping area.

        At the campsite we will work together to prepare our tent and kitchen sites while reviewing some things to check for when selecting your tent site.

        After setting up camp, we will prepare our backpacking meals. Additional activities will include, back country food storage and making a campfire. Then we will enjoy some camaraderie around our campfire. Topics of discussion will include Leave No Trace principles, general trail etiquette, and back country hygiene. We may share our hiking and backpacking experiences, bucket lists, and discuss our day's events.

        In the morning, we will heat up water for everyone to have their coffee, tea, oatmeal, etc. After breakfast we will break camp using leave no trace techniques and hike back to the parking lot.

        Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast will be provided by the leaders. Dinner will be from a selection of backpacking meals along with coffee/hot chocolate/tea. You will learn how to use stoves and other items. Participants will need to bring their own snacks. There may also be a shared responsibility for carrying any group food and equipment. Please leave some extra room in your backpacks for a few items. Leaders will provide trip details regarding meals, what to bring, and other information.

        Don’t have gear? That’s no problem as CIWC has tents and backpacks you can borrow. We share some club-provided group gear, such as stoves, fuel and water filters. A suggested gear list will be provided by your trip leaders.

        Participants will bring their own snacks, drink items, and a sleeping bag and pad suitable for the expected overnight temperature.

        All trip participants will have the ability to hike 3-5 miles per day on uneven terrain with their backpacks. The trip will wrap up late morning to early afternoon on Sunday.

        All trip participants will be expected to submit a medical form, sign a waiver and complete emergency information documents prior to participation.

        All trip participants must fill out and submit a

        CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

        Questions? Contact CIWCinfo@gmail.com


        Show details

      • CIWC Pennsy Trail Ride and Lunch - June 27, 2026

        • June 27, 2026
        • 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM
        • Pennsy Trail (Irvington) Ellenberger Park Pool Parking Lot
        • 16
        Register
        Ride 42 miles round trip between Irvington and Greenfield along the Pennsy Trail, a former railroad bed paved trail
        Difficulty Level: Moderate
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      • CIWC Cycle the Nickel Plate Trail - Kokomo to Rochester, July 11-12, 2026

        • July 11, 2026
        • July 12, 2026
        • Nickel Plate Trail, Kokomo, Indiana
        Register

        Cycle the Nickel Plate Trail

        Nickel Plate Trail, Kokomo to Rochester

        July 11 - 12, 2026

        Co-Trip Leaders: John South and TBD

        Type of Trip: Biking/Lodging

        Trip Cost/Deposit: $150/$75

        Cancellation Date and full payment: June 10, 2026

        Wilderness Level: 2 

        Trip Difficulty: Moderate, 45 miles total, longest day is 25 miles,12 mph, moderate grades, mostly trails, paved or hard pack gravel

        Policy on Fitness Self-Assessment 

        Level 2: Primarily applies to trips in which we carry only day packs. In one day, we can hike up to 9 miles and 4500 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 7 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged, less-maintained trails. For a Level 2 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a light day pack. If a backpacking trip has a Level 2 rating, it means the distances are 2-4 miles with little elevation gain/loss.

        Level 3: Applies to backpacking trips in which we hike with 25-35 pound backpacks. In one day, we can hike up to 7 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 5 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged trails. For a Level 3 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack.

        Group Size: 8/7 Maximum/Minimum

        Adults. Youth with leader approval OK


        This is a two-day trip to ride the Nickel Plate Trail from Kokomo to Rochester, a total length of 45 miles on paved trail. On Saturday will start riding in Kokomo and finish in Peru. After a shower and dinner, we will attend the Peru Amateur Circus. We will stay at a local hotel – 2 persons per room. Sunday we will ride from Peru to Rochester- 25 miles. I’m sure we will find some ice cream before the trip is over. Clothes and personal items will be transported each day. The trip include travel to and from a starting point on the north side of Indianapolis, circus tickets and hotel cost. Food will be at each person’s expense.

        Questions may be submitted to ciwcinfo@gmail.com.

        All trip participants must fill out and submit a

        CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

        Effective on all trips, there will be a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. This fee will be assessed to those who sign up for a trip, get on the roster and then later cancel. Even cancelling before the cancel date. Those who never make the active roster (i.e. those who stay on the waitlist) will NOT be charged the $50 cancellation fee. 

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      • CIWC Backpacking Red River Gorge, KY, July 14-16, 2026

        • July 14, 2026
        • July 16, 2026
        • Red River Gorge, Kentucky
        Register

        CIWC Backpacking Red River Gorge, KY

        Red River Gorge Geological Area

        July 14-16, 2026

        Co-Trip Leaders: Harry Morris and A'ame Joslin

        Type of Trip: Backpacking

        Trip Cost: $135

        Wilderness Level: 2 

        Trip Difficulty: Moderate terrain - 1000 ft elevation gain. Up to 10 miles per day; 20 miles total

        Policy on Fitness Self-Assessment 

        Level 3: Applies to backpacking trips in which we hike with 25–35-pound backpacks. In one day, we can hike up to 7 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 5 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged trails. For a Level 3 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack.

        Group Size: 8/7 Maximum/Minimum

        Adults and High School Youth 


        Red River Gorge Backpacking trip, we will travel together from Indianapolis in a 12-person van, drive the 4 plus hour drive to Red River Gorge area, food on the road and on the trail is each person’s responsibility.

        Bear canisters are required in this area. The club has a couple of canisters. 

        When we arrive at Martins Fork Trail Head departing east this is a two-night trip, the trail is a 20 mile loop the 1st day I plan on knocking out about 5 miles this area has many ups and downs sometimes 500ft to 1000 ft in elevation gain and loss. This area has lots of Natural Arche Bridges and the trail will take us past some of them. We will find a nice spot to camp and the next day hike about another 10 miles and spend the night. On the last day we will get back to the trailhead, returning to Indianapolis on July 16th with a Town Stop at the Famous Miguels Pizza in Slade.


        Questions may be submitted to ciwcinfo@gmail.com.

        All trip participants must fill out and submit a

        CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

        Effective on all trips, there will be a $50 non refundable registration fee. This fee will be assessed to those who sign up for a trip, get on the roster and then later cancel. Even cancelling before the cancel date. Those who never make the active roster (i.e. those who stay on the waitlist) will NOT be charged the $50 cancellation fee. 

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      • CIWC Manistee River Michigan - Paddle & Hike, Mesick, MI, July 17-21, 2026

        • July 17, 2026
        • July 21, 2026
        • Manistee River, Mesick, MI 49688
        Register

        Manistee River Michigan - Paddle & Hike

        Manistee River Trail, Mesick, MI

        July 17-21, 2026

        Co-Trip Leaders: Wendy Brinson and TBD

        Type of Trip: Paddling/some Hiking/Camping

        Trip Cost: $60

        Cancellation Date and full payment: June 10, 2026

        Wilderness Level: 2 -  Rural area such as a State Forest or a more remote State Park. Day or overnight.

        Trip Difficulty: Moderate - Total 50 miles and up to 20 miles per day (paddling)

        Policy on Fitness Self-Assessment 

        Level 3: Applies to backpacking trips in which we hike with 25-35 pound backpacks. In one day, we can hike up to 7 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 5 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged trails. For a Level 3 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack.

        Group Size: 8/7 Maximum/Minimum

        Adults. Youth with leader approval OK

        Join us for a trip to the beautiful Manistee River in Michigan for canoeing or kayaking and some hiking.

        The first day we will drive to Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground then set up camp. This is a smaller but pretty campground on the Manistee River. We will hike to High Banks Rollway that day or the next morning which is about 5 miles. The second day we’ll shuttle then paddle from upstream of the campground for 3-4 hours. The third day we’ll pack up, shuttle, then paddle downstream toward Mesick, ending the day at Seaton Creek Campground which is close to the Manistee River Trail. Day 4 we can paddle from Hodenpyl Dam down to Red Bridge and then hike parts of the Manistee River Trail the next day before heading home.

        You are responsible for your transportation, kayak or canoe, Michigan Recreation passport and meals.

        A shakedown event will be determined at a later date. 

        All participants must wear a personal flotation device when on the river.

        Questions may be submitted to ciwcinfo@gmail.com.

        All trip participants must fill out and submit a

        CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

         

        Effective on all trips, there will be a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. This fee will be assessed to those who sign up for a trip, get on the roster and then later cancel. Even cancelling before the cancel date. Those who never make the active roster (i.e. those who stay on the waitlist) will NOT be charged the $50 cancellation fee. 


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      • CIWC Ride the Katy Trail Bike Trip, Missouri, August 1-8, 2026

        • August 01, 2026
        • August 08, 2026
        • https://bikekatytrail.com/st-charles.aspx
        Register

        Katy Trail Bike Trip

        Katy Trail, Missouri

        August 1- 8, 2026

        Co-Trip Leaders: John South and TBD

        Type of Trip: Biking/Lodging

        Trip Cost/Deposit: $1100/$550

        Cancellation Date and full payment: July 1, 2026

        Wilderness Level: 2 

        Trip Difficulty: Moderate, 200 miles total, longest day is 39 miles,10-12 mph, moderate grades, mostly trails, paved or hard pack gravel

        Policy on Fitness Self-Assessment 

        Level 2: Primarily applies to trips in which we carry only day packs. In one day, we can hike up to 9 miles and 4500 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 7 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged, less-maintained trails. For a Level 2 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a light day pack. If a backpacking trip has a Level 2 rating, it means the distances are 2-4 miles with little elevation gain/loss.

        Level 3: Applies to backpacking trips in which we hike with 25-35 pound backpacks. In one day, we can hike up to 7 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 5 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged trails. For a Level 3 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack.

        Group Size: 8/7 Maximum/Minimum

        Adults. Youth with leader approval OK

        The Katy Trail is an iconic trail reaching across most of Missouri following the Missouri River. It was added to the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame in 2008. The trail meanders for 235 miles through small towns with rich history. It starts in Clinton, Mo and ends east of St Charles at Blackwalnut, Mo. To limit daily mileage and access available hotels, 36 miles will be cut for a total of 200 trip miles. There will be time to relax in the afternoon and evening to visit local sites. Several wineries are optional to visit.


        We will utilize two vehicles to shuttle personal gear from hotel to hotel. 4 rooms will be reserved each night with 2 people to a room. Some of the smaller establishments may have only one queen or king bed to a room for two people. Most breakfasts will be provided by the hotel. Lunch on the trail and dinner in the evening will be at your expense. Meals while traveling are at your expense. Trip costs cover vehicle use and hotel expenses. Note- This trip is possible using one vehicle, one leader and reserving 2 rooms each night for 5 people. Trip costs will be updated and reviewed by the attendees.

        Questions may be submitted to ciwcinfo@gmail.com.

        All trip participants must fill out and submit a

        CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

        Effective on all trips, there will be a $50 non refundable registration fee. This fee will be assessed to those who sign up for a trip, get on the roster and then later cancel. Even cancelling before the cancel date. Those who never make the active roster (i.e. those who stay on the waitlist) will NOT be charged the $50 cancellation fee. 

        Show details

      • CIWC AuSable River Overnight Paddling/Camping, Grayling, MI, August 22-26, 2026

        • August 22, 2026
        • August 26, 2026
        • 101 Maple St, Grayling, MI 49738
        Register

        AuSable River Overnight Paddling/Camping

        Grayling, Michigan

        August 22 - 26, 2026

        Co-Trip Leaders: Dave Hoffmeyer and John Carlson

        Type of Trip: Paddling/Camping

        Trip Cost/Deposit: $200/$100

        Cancellation Date and full payment: June 1, 2026

        Wilderness Level: 3 - typical meetup day event in good weather setting with cell coverage         

        Trip Difficulty: Moderate - only 1 portage over a dam, Class I river

        Policy on Fitness Self-Assessment 

        Level 2: Primarily applies to trips in which we carry only day packs. In one day, we can hike up to 9 miles and 4500 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 7 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged, less-maintained trails. For a Level 2 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a light day pack. If a backpacking trip has a Level 2 rating, it means the distances are 2-4 miles with little elevation gain/loss.

        Level 3: Applies to backpacking trips in which we hike with 25-35 pound backpacks. In one day, we can hike up to 7 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 5 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged trails. For a Level 3 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack.

        Group Size: 12/6 Maximum/Minimum

        Adults Only


        Au Sable River Canoe trip August 20-26, 2026


        This is one of the easier paddles for a multi overnight. We will be paddling the famed Au Sable National Scenic River. One time we did this trip we counted 11 Bald Eagles! We did this trip again last year and everyone loved it! If you have never done an overnight paddle trip this is a great one for you.

        When you arrive in Grayling, we will spend the first night at a Bed and Breakfast, and the next morning head to Borcher’s Canoe Livery, which we have used in the past. Departing from Borcher’s we will get into our canoes for 4 days of paddling. Each day will consist of 6-8 hours of paddling, and the only portage is over a dam on the 3rd day.

        *If you would like to bring your own canoe or kayak, Borcher’s can transport and we may be able to reduce your fee.

        You will need to provide your own meals. On the last day, after being shuttled back to Grayling by the outfitter, we will have plenty of time to head home on Wednesday, August 26th.

        Some experience paddling is required as are always wearing personal flotation devices when on the river.

        Questions may be submitted to ciwcinfo@gmail.com.

        All trip participants must fill out and submit a

        CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

        Effective on all trips, there will be a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. This fee will be assessed to those who sign up for a trip, get on the roster and then later cancel. Even cancelling before the cancel date. Those who never make the active roster (i.e. those who stay on the waitlist) will NOT be charged the $50 cancellation fee. 


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      • CIWC North Country Trail (NCT) Backpacking, Northern Lower Peninsula, Manistee, MI, September 20-25, 2026

        • September 20, 2026
        • September 25, 2026
        • North Country Trail, Manistee, Michigan
        Register

        North Country Trail (NCT) Backpacking

        North County Trail (NCT) Manistee River

        September 20-25, 2026

        Co-Trip Leaders: Dave Hoffmeyer and TBD

        Type of Trip: Backpacking

        Trip Cost: $55

        Wilderness Level: 3 - typical meetup day event in good weather setting with cell coverage         

        Trip Difficulty: Moderate terrain - 500 ft elevation gain. Up to 12 miles per day

        Policy on Fitness Self-Assessment 

        Level 2: Primarily applies to trips in which we carry only day packs. In one day, we can hike up to 9 miles and 4500 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 7 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged, less-maintained trails. For a Level 2 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a light day pack. If a backpacking trip has a Level 2 rating, it means the distances are 2-4 miles with little elevation gain/loss.

        Level 3: Applies to backpacking trips in which we hike with 25-35 pound backpacks. In one day, we can hike up to 7 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 5 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged trails. For a Level 3 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack.

        Group Size: 8/7 Maximum/Minimum

        Adults Only


        Join us for 5 days of hiking on the North Country National Scenic Trail along the scenic Manistee River in the Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan. Participants will receive credit for 50 of the 100 Miles for the North Country Trail hike 100 challenge. The hike is 5 days long with daily mileage of between 9 to 12 miles. There are some large hills to climb but much of the trail follows the river.

        Meeting up after a 6-hour drive from Indianapolis, we will camp near Fife Lake at a State Forest Campground. Averaging 10 miles a day, the trail follows the river mostly on a high bluff with scenic views. Part of this route includes the High Banks Rollways. The Hike will end at the North end of the Manistee River Loop trail on Saturday September 25th.

        3 nights of camping will be in State Forest Campgrounds, 1 in a private primitive campground and there will be 1 night of dispersed camping. Transportation is not provided, but we will try to arrange carpooling. All meals are the responsibility of the participant, but we will have an ordering option to buy a large quantity of meals. There will likely be cell phone coverage for much of the hike, but as a precaution your trip leaders will have emergency communication devices.

        Temperatures at that time of year should be pleasant with highs in the 60-70’s and overnight lows in the 50’s. Overnight backpacking experience is required with daily mileage of 10 or more.


        Questions may be submitted to ciwcinfo@gmail.com.

        All trip participants must fill out and submit a

        CIWC Medical Form and Liability Release.  

         

        Effective on all trips, there will be a $50 non refundable registration fee. This fee will be assessed to those who sign up for a trip, get on the roster and then later cancel. Even cancelling before the cancel date. Those who never make the active roster (i.e. those who stay on the waitlist) will NOT be charged the $50 cancellation fee. 


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      • CIWC Bring the Kids (age 13+) to Brown County - October 25, 2026

        • October 25, 2026
        • 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
        • Parking Lot by Ogle Lake Ogle Lake Trail 7 Nashville, IN 47448
        • 13
        Register

        CIWC Bring the Kids (age 13+) to

        Brown County State Park - October 25, 2026

        October 25, 2026, at Parking Lot by Ogle Lake

        Ogle Lake Trail 7 Nashville, IN 47448

        Open to the Public

        Time: 1:30 PM Meeting | 2:00 PM Departure | 4:30 PM Return

        Trip Host: Debrah Worland


        All family members need to be registered in the total number of guests. Maximum of 4 guests per registered adult.  Adults must be at least 18 years old, and all kids must be at least 13 years old. Adults are completely responsible for any guests (kids).

        Get the kids outside to see the beautiful fall trees before the cold weather comes to stay. 1.5 hike around Ogle Lake on relatively flat trail (with a few sets of a stairs). Stop for snack and play at the playground before driving up to West Lookout Tower to take in the view.

        Transportation Plan: Meet at location


        Required Gear/Clothing: Water, snack, shoes and clothing appropriate to get dirty, wear weather appropriate clothes


        Cell Service Availability: Spotty


        Emergency Exit Plan: Call park ranger, will be near vehicles if weather turns

        Questions? Contact: ciwcinfo@gmail.com

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