2025 COLUMBIA Presentations Listed Below
Friday, March 28
Presenter: Steve Schnarr, Race Director @ Missouri River Relief
Title: Missouri River Paddle Racing
The muddy Missouri is a big river that can be intimidating, but it is a great river for a paddle trip or for racing. Steve and Missouri River Relief host two big races you may have heard of – the Missouri American Water MR340 and Race to the Dome. Come learn some tips and tricks about preparing for and finishing these two esteemed races. Good for beginners and veteran paddlers alike.
Presenter: Author Jim Washabaugh
Title: Missouri Trout Talk
Learn more about Fishing the Missouri Trout Parks with an emphasis on Bennett Spring State Park, Meramec Spring Park, Montauk State Park, and Roaring River State Park
Presenter: Emily Woll, Alpine Shop Manager
Title: MR340 Lessons Learned
The American Water Missouri River MR340 is an epic marathon paddle race and quite the undertaking… but it is definitely something to be proud of doing. Emily was a MR340 DNF, finisher and ground crew, it is safe to say she learned a few things while paddling along the muddy Missouri. She will share a few beginner trips and tricks and stories for frist time MR340 racers and ground crew.
Saturday, March 29
Presenter: Acola Coffee Company
Title: Java Jiving: Coffee in the Outdoors
Local coffee experts from Acola talk Java in the Great Outdoors
Presenter: Dave McGee, Co-Owner of COMO Rocks
Title: Climbing El Capitan
Step away from the limestone bluffs of the Ozarks and head west to the larger-than-life mountans of the Sierra Nevada. Yosemite valley is the home of some of the most magnificent landscapes in the country. Perhaps the most iconic is is the incredible granite face of El Capitan. This feature has become the crown jewel for many climbers and is featured in popular films Free Solo and The Dawn Wall. Hear COMO Rocks Co-Owner Dave McGee share his stories and tips from his El Cap ascent, and get inspired to attempt the summit yourself.
Presenter: Jake Dalton & Josie Hall
Title: Preparing for Philmont
Spending their summers at Philmont Scout Ranch as a Trip Leader or a Ranger, Jake and Josie have learned a few things. come learn about what gear you’ll need and the skills you can practice to have a successful, safe and remarkable trip through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains!
Presenter: Sarah Easton with Runge Conservation Nature Center
Title: Nature’s Playground: Positive Child Development in the Great Outdoors
Outdoor experiences play a crucial role in child development by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and promoting physical and emotional well-being. Join us as we explore the many benefits of nature for children and share practical tips for ensuring positive outdoor adventures with kids!
Presenter: The Alpine Shop Female Crew
Title: Women Gone Wild
Isn’t backpacking alone scary? Hiking solo isn’t safe. I want to get out there, but I’m not sure where to start. Does any of this sound familiar ladies? Well, the women of Alpine Shop are here to dispell the lady -alone -in -the -woods stereotypes and myths! We love getting outdoors, with our gal pals, solo or sometimes with our boy buddies. But always we are calm and capable! Come for the advice and the confidence, stay for the stories!
Sunday, March 30
Presenter: Cyclex Bicycle Shop
Title: Basic Bike Maintenance Clinic
Learn how to change a tire, chain maintenance and other DIY skills you can use on your bike while on the trail.
Presenter: Emily Woll, Alpine Shop Columbia Store Manager
Title: LNT Principles for Park Visits in 2025