What is Outback NA ?

Outback NA is a Narcotics Anonymous group that is part of the 916 North Area of Narcotics Anonymous. We are a group of recovering addicts who meet regularly to share the message of recovery. Instead of meeting in the same room each week, we meet all around the 916 North Area and out lying areas in beautiful settings.  We have a different place each time. This meeting also sponsors day trips and camping weekends.

What are our meetings like?

Whereas all meetings are special, Outback NA has the extra advantage of hiking and having our meeting in the outdoors. This gives the group a chance to exercise, and talk in a more informal setting, before and after the meeting.  Some hikes are harder than others. The group works toward coming up with hikes that challenge our more seasoned members, while also having hikes that most people can enjoy. Members agree that the beauty of nature, the opportunities to hike with other recovering addicts, and discovering places of beauty in our own backyard make Outback NA a special gift.

Outback NA hikes are every other Saturday. We visit parks and preserves that are City, County, State, or National. Hikes start at 10:00 AM with the Serenity Prayer. We start the hike promptly so that there is time at the meeting for everyone to share. The length of time we are on the trail can vary, from 40 minutes to several hours, depending on the venue.  Try to choose a hike that matches your abilities. (see below) . Since people hike at different rates; we use trail radios to track each other while on the trail. 

Outback NA meetings usually are held near the half-way point of the hike. The meetings follow a Speaker/Discussion format and lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Many people car pool to the meetings. Please allow extra travel time so that you can have a serene drive and join us in the parking lot or meeting place for fellowship 15-30 minutes before the hike begins at 10 AM. Please note that in these outdoor meetings, we need to take care that we don't get sunburned or exposed to poison oak. 

Outback NA sends a representative to Area Service, and is listed in the 916 North Area Narcotics Anonymous Meeting Schedule. We strive to adhere to the principles and the traditions of Narcotics Anonymous, and to carry a clear NA message.

How difficult are the hikes?

Some hikes are a "walk in the library." Others are challenging even for experienced hikers. Because recovery depends on group unity, we make a special effort to stick together and make sure everyone completes the hike with a smile. We encourage each other as we walk, just like we do with the other challenges in recovery.

Choose a hike that fits your ability. We rate the hikes on a scale of 1 to 5 to help you choose.

Level 1 - Easy. A walk in the library. Level, only a few miles. Great for newcomers and members that haven't been walking much. Being outdoors and in the company of fellow addicts means everyone can have a good time.

Level 2 - Moderate. A few more miles and some up and down. Still good for inexperienced hikers.

Level 3 - Challenging. You'll probably be breathing hard at a few points because of the climb and/or extra miles. Most everyone can still do these hikes if they have willingness.

Level 4 - Hard. Not recommended if you're new to hiking. Lots of elevation change and lots of miles. Guaranteed to give you a good workout along with the serenity of being outdoors in good company.

Level 5 - Very difficult. Often we reserve these hikes for weekend retreats where we have more time to hike and relax. Get in shape before joining us on these hikes. And remember as you're wondering if you can make it to the top what you went through to get clean and how much better your life is today.