Group Programs
Our GroupPrograms serve over 4,000 youth and adults each year. We can get any group outside from scout troops, employee outings, schools, birthday parties, community centers and religious groups.
Designed to provide outdoor recreation that is educational and fun, each activity is conducted at the beginner level, requires no prior experience and lasts 2 to 3 hours. All programs include experienced guides, essential gear, and allow your group to:
- Improve wellness and develop a healthy lifestyle
- Develop new outdoor recreation skills
- Foster a greater appreciation of their peers
- Increase awareness of where they live, work, & play
- Learn about Pittsburgh’s environment, history, art, architecture, etc.
- Build self-esteem
- Problem-solve
- Have fun!
Activities:
Kayaking
Discover how easy it is to paddle Pittsburgh’s beautiful waterways. Our guided flat-water kayaking starts with instruction and practice, followed by a leisurely paced paddle for the whole group. Taking in the gorgeous skylines, picturesque views, or sightings of wildlife, you won’t even realize that you’re suddenly paddling like a pro.
- Stable, beginner friendly boats
- Leisurely paced paddling
- Themed tours
- Canoes & rowboats may be available at North Park
- Locations: Allegheny River, Lake Elizabeth and other flat-water opportunities
Geocaching Hikes (pronounced Jee-o-cashing)
More than just a walk through the woods, this technology influenced hike uses a handheld GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver to navigate your group to a series of hidden treasures. It’s the ultimate teambuilding challenge!
- Learn the basics of using a handheld GPS unit
- Great activity for group cooperation, planning, and decision-making skills
- Prizes included
- Communication required…with each other and the satellites!
- Locations: South Park, North Park, Frick, Schenley & Riverview Parks, Allegheny Commons, North Shore Trail
Cruiser Biking
Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers and surrounding waterways are lined with wonderful bike trails full of history and scenic beauty. Now your group can experience them with our fleet of comfort cruiser bikes. These sapphire-blue beauties are specially designed with the rider’s comfort in mind.
- Easy to ride
- Beginner-friendly
- Relaxed tours along flat terrain
- Locations: Numerous locations including the popular North Park Loop, North Shore Trail and the Eliza Furnace/South Side Trail
Fishing
Enjoy group fishing that is fun and easy. We provide all the poles, tackle, & bait, you bring the patience and camera for the big catch! Our instructor will be there to teach and help out with the fish and bait.
- All fishing is catch-and-release
- PA fishing license required for ages 16 and over
- We may be able to come to your location
- Locations: Allegheny River, North Park Lake
Climbing Wall
Venture Outdoors is pleased to announce our new climbing wall service to the community! These hard-surfaced professional walls bring the excitement and benefits of rock climbing to your group. Our friendly, trained staff will provide guidance and gear.
- 24 or 32 foot climbing walls with 4 climbing stations on each
- Great activity for building trust, improving concentration, and increasing self-esteem
- Perfect for large group events…please inquire about bringing the wall to your location
- Locations: Allegheny Commons
Venture Variety Trips
If one outdoor activity is not enough for your group, then think about a combination of two adventures. You pick any two from the activities listed above, and we’ll provide all the gear, guides, and itinerary. Some limitations may apply. You can bring your own food for the break between activities, or we may be able to provide you with the following:
- Propane grill for you to cook your food
- Snacks &/or bottled water
- Catered box lunch
- Locations: Kayak Pittsburgh Downtown or Kayak Pittsburgh North Park