Side Quest Public Adventures are opportunities to explore, learn, and try something new outside. Hike the coast in San Francisco, walk beneath the redwoods, explore the Marin Headlands, or take the guide's seat on the American River.
Some adventures are about discovering a place. Others are about developing a new skill. All of them are professionally led outdoor experiences—and revenue from Public Adventures helps fund Side Quest Student Expeditions for San Francisco public school students.
Explore one of San Francisco's most dramatic coastal landscapes along the cliffs and trails of Lands End.
This guided experience combines sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate with local ecology, history, and the stories that shape this remarkable coastline.
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Cross the Golden Gate and step into the rugged hills, coastal trails, and expansive viewpoints of the Marin Headlands.
Explore the natural and human history of this extraordinary landscape while taking in some of the Bay Area's most iconic views.
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Walk beneath towering coast redwoods and experience one of the Bay Area's most extraordinary forest ecosystems.
This guided experience explores redwood ecology, conservation, the history of the landscape, and the connections between forests, climate, water, and the surrounding region.
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Ready for something a little bigger? Side Quest also offers hands-on whitewater instruction in partnership with River Runners USA on the American River.
These experiences move beyond a traditional rafting trip. Participants learn from skilled river professionals while developing boat-handling skills, river awareness, communication, judgment, teamwork, and leadership through direct practice on the water.
A youth-focused introduction to whitewater rafting and guide skills designed to build confidence, teamwork, leadership, and comfort on the river.
Participants learn through active practice both on and around the water while developing an understanding of how rafting teams communicate, make decisions, and work together.
A hands-on introduction to the technical, leadership, and decision-making skills involved in guiding a paddle raft through moving water.
The course is designed for adults who want to become stronger river runners, learn the fundamentals of raft guiding, or gain a deeper understanding of whitewater systems.
A practical introduction to maneuvering an oar-powered raft and understanding the fundamentals of rowing in moving water.
This course is intended for adults interested in becoming more capable private boaters, preparing for multi-day river trips, or adding rowing skills to their whitewater experience.
Experience remarkable trails, forests, coastlines, rivers, and public lands with experienced outdoor professionals.
Our adventures go beyond simply getting outside. Depending on the experience, you'll learn about the landscape, its story, or the technical skills needed to move through it.
Revenue generated through Public Adventures helps fund professionally led outdoor education for San Francisco public school students.
Whether you're looking for a guided hike, a day beneath the redwoods, or the chance to learn how to run a raft, we'll help you find the right Side Quest.
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