Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1514247
30 WAC Magazine | wac.net club life affinity group Outdoor Adventure Club The WAC Outdoor Adventure Club has a full slate of winter events ahead! January 21 Ski trip to the Summit at Snoqualmie February 24 Snowmobiling in Cle Elum March 2 Snowshoeing To learn more about the group and join up, contact Aurora LaBrenz at alabrenz@wac.net. You can also join the chat group and learn about upcoming events on the WAC app: Menu > Stay Connected > The WAC Chat > Join an official chat. Outdoor activities are a staple for Washingtonians. With expansive forests, picturesque mountains, wild beaches, and an assortment of state and national parks, our state offers much to explore. "When I first started at the WAC, I was immediately aware of members' desire for an outdoor club," Club Programs Event Coordinator Aurora LaBrenz says. With a personal passion for the out- doors and plenty of experience—includ- ing a 2017 thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail—Aurora got right to work, starting the WAC's Outdoor Adventure Club. "I love getting outside and sharing my passion for the outdoors with members," Aurora says. e group officially formed in early 2023 and planned its first adventure, a snowshoeing trip. Since then, members have tried a new activity almost every month. "e main goal is for members to connect and try activities they may have been unsure about trying on their own," Aurora says. Group organizers generally choose events suitable for all experience levels, and many are family-friendly. In 2023, trips included camping in the North Cas- cades, floating down the Wenatchee River, and biking through Ballard. Member J. Irons joined last summer's three-day, 20- mile backpacking trip through Olympic National Park. "My favorite part was the fantastic co-adventurers from diverse backgrounds," J. says. Making new friends seems to be a common theme, which is exactly what Aurora loves to hear. Member Susan Ragen has been hiking for most of her life and attended her first Outdoor Adventure Club event last May, a hike to Wallace Falls. "I enjoyed the variety of ages of members who participated," she says. "I found folks who hiked at my pace, and I always enjoy conversations on the trails. It's a fun setting to get to know people." e Outdoor Adventure Club remains active year-round. "We live in Washing- ton," Aurora smiles. "If you want to enjoy all that nature, sometimes that means getting a little cold or wet." Get outside! Explore the Pacific Northwest with the Outdoor Adventure Club By Maya Anderson