Eagle Cliff on Cypress Island, British Columbia. Photo by Ann Kruse.

Something that struck me as I watched the National Parks series on PBS last month was how much John Muir loved being outside. He also loved getting other people out there, so they could experience the same joy he felt. And there were also times he took them along so they'd be motivated to help protect wild places.

I'm proud to say that, thanks to Muir and other early Sierra Club leaders, our Outings program has 100 years of experience as an outfitter for environmental travel. We've got it nailed -- and you don't have to believe me. Sierra Club Outings has been named one of the "best adventure travel companies" by National Geographic Adventure, and is in the "50 Tours of a Lifetime" listing (see Camp Glacier) by National Geographic Traveler.

What I like is that there are trips suited for those who want to stay in a lodge and take short hikes during the day; paddle in  to tropical climes or near glaciers; backpack in extremely remote corners of the U.S., or in exotic international locales.  There are trips that focus on birding, art and writing, women-only backpack trips.

Here's a sampling.

• Snow: ski, snowshoe, or dog mush in Alaska, Canada and the Lower 48
  
• Backpack: trek through untouched wilderness with a team of hardy explorers
  
• Lodge: enjoy the outdoors by day and return each night to the comforts of home
  
• Service: mix work with play on a fun and rewarding volunteer vacation
  
• National Parks: see the best of our spectacular national parks
  
• International: visit exotic locales from Central America to the Far East

With more than 350 trips to choose from, I'm betting you'll find something that calls your name.

Tioga Jenny