Go Explore with Venture Outdoors
Written by Elisabeth Kay
There are many things that make Pittsburgh unique, both seen and unseen. But there’s one thing that you can’t avoid at nearly any cost when it comes to Pittsburgh, and that’s the outdoors.
Since 2001, Venture Outdoors has been committed to showing the Pittsburgh community the endless outdoor activities that live around the city. It’s rare that you find a city with three rivers in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, and the crew at Venture Outdoors recognizes the beauty it provides.
Photo Courtesy of @VentureOutdoors on Instagram.
Venture Outdoors offers countless opportunities to get involved and fall in love with the nature that Pittsburgh has to offer. Ash Andrews, the current CEO, is excited to share their most recent project, which is opening a new dock and launch downtown, just outside of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on the Allegheny River.
The dock is open from 1-7 PM on Wednesday through Friday, and 11AM-5PM on Saturday and Sunday, and both reservations made through their website or walk ups are available. They boast a ton of different boats you can rent, including a stand up paddle board. This dock is also completely accessible for those with disabilities, being the first and only launch of this kind downtown and encouraging absolutely everyone to be involved.
They continue to expand this launch, and they’re in Phase 2 of the project, which would add a permanent boathouse on the dock to store all of their boats and equipment. They’re about a third away from their $100,000 goal to make this possible, and you’re able to donate here through their Adopt-A-Kayak fundraiser.
Their mission is broader than simply getting people outdoors– they strive to get people to care about being outdoors. Through themed group paddle trips, or exploration around hidden parts of Pittsburgh, or even setting up meetings in kayaks on one of the rivers, the Venture Outdoors crew doesn’t want Pittsburgh to go unnoticed and uncared for. They’re aiming to rewrite the stereotype of Pittsburgh being a city full of pollution with their enthusiasm and community. Show and grow your love for this city with Venture Outdoors, and be sure to check out their website to find your next excursion!
