Member Experiences
​Crissy Burruel
“I was finding it hard to find people who craved the same type of adventure I was seeking, and as a solo female hiker, I wanted to make sure I was joining a community where I felt safe while exploring nature with others. Since my first event with Ocean to Peak, I have been overwhelmed with the support, encouragement, safety, and happiness of others. I have been able to meet people who love the outdoors not only from my local community, but from all around. Because of OTP, I’ve backpacked in the snow, kayaked through bioluminescence, camped, hiked and did yoga amongst the redwoods, witnessed thousands of bats take flight, and hiked to summits I never thought I’d see with my own eyes. If you’re looking to bring meaning and adventure to your life, no matter your age or ability, Ocean to Peak Adventures is where you want to be. Hope to see you out there soon!”
Member since 2020
Joaquin Munoz​
​
A Heartfelt Thank You to OTP for Unforgettable Adventures
Over the past few years, my life has been transformed by the incredible experiences I've shared with OTP. From learning to snowshoe across pristine winter landscapes to embarking on my first snow camping adventure under a star-filled sky, OTP has opened up a world of exploration I never imagined possible. I've marveled at the surreal beauty of Joshua Tree National Park’s desert vistas, felt the vastness of Death Valley National Park’s rugged terrain, stood in awe of the majestic peaks of Grand Teton National Park, and wandered through the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Beyond these iconic destinations, countless day hikes through lush forests and serene paddleboarding sessions on tranquil waters have filled my heart with joy and adventure.
What makes OTP truly special isn’t just the breathtaking destinations or the thrill of new activities—it’s the community. Josh and the OTP Team have created more than just adventure itineraries; they’ve built a vibrant, welcoming community of like-minded explorers who share a passion for the outdoors. Whether we’re swapping stories around a campfire, cheering each other on during a challenging climb, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature together, these moments have forged friendships and memories that I’ll carry with me forever.
​
OTP is a haven for every kind of adventurer. If you love meticulously planning every detail of a trip but crave a break from the logistics, OTP takes care of everything so you can simply immerse yourself in the experience. And if planning isn’t your thing, their expertly curated adventures let you focus on the fun without the stress. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, OTP makes every journey seamless, exciting, and deeply rewarding.
​
To Josh and the entire OTP Team, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You’ve not only given me the chance to explore stunning corners of the world but also introduced me to an incredible community that feels like family. These adventures have become cherished chapters in my life story, and I’m endlessly grateful for the memories we’ve created together. Here’s to many more trails, laughs, and unforgettable moments with OTP!
Member since 2021
Elisabeth de Gaust
​"I love participating in the OTP mountain summit challenge! This is my 4th year summiting in the MSC since 2022, and I'm still just as excited and committed about it. The MSC takes me to new places and new mountains every year, which is very awesome! I'm super excited about researching, planning, and organizing my different summit trips at the beginning of each year. Which ones to climb in the snow and which ones to hold off with. There are also group events where you can summit together with other MSC participants. A great way to meet and connect with new summit buddies. The MSC makes me push myself inside and outside of my comfort zone to great challenges. It makes me set goals for the year and makes me grow as a person. It's an all year around adventure! I am grateful for Josh initiating this challenge!”​​​
Member since 2022
Melat Tsegaye
​
“I joined OTP about a year and a half ago in march 2024, and it’s easily one of the best decisions I’ve made. Since then, I’ve gone on incredible adventures with the group, including chasing waterfalls in Oregon, experiencing the magic of fall colors in Utah, and taking in the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone.
​
What makes OTP so special is how thoughtfully curated each trip is, every itinerary balances must-see highlights with hidden gems, so you never feel like you’ve missed out. The community itself is just as amazing: everyone is so warm, welcoming, and embracing that it feels like traveling with old friends, even if it’s your first trip. And of course, none of it would run so smoothly without Josh. He has a gift for keeping everything organized and timely, which makes it easy to relax and truly enjoy the experience.
OTP isn’t just about seeing new places, it’s about sharing unforgettable adventures with an incredible group of people. I can’t recommend it enough!"
Member since 2024
Joanna Collier
“My first OTP event was the North Coast camping trip in 2022. I was nervous and excited to meet everyone after stalking the group for almost a year. My friend, Noelle, recommended the group so I knew I would be in good hands. I was welcomed with open arms and happy to find everything so well organized and most important to me to on time.
​
Over the years, I have done others trips such as Joshua Tree which pushed me mentally and physically. The teamwork on that trip was amazing and still one of my favorites.
I recently did the Oregon trip and it was a different kind of trip from Joshua Tree. We explored waterfalls and spent meaningful time in nature and with others in the group.
​
The day hikes and events are great when they align with my schedule, but recently I have been enjoying the Mountain Summit Challenge. The list of hikes to complete is exciting and challenging throughout the year. Even if I don't complete the Advanced or Expert levels, I know I am building myself up to get there one day.
​
I am truly grateful for this group and all the different experiences it has to offer. Highly recommend.”
Member since 2021
Christina Huff
​
"I’ve been a part of OTP for over three years. I have made long lasting friendships and had lots of amazing trips like Hawaii, Utah in the fall, and Portland waterfalls to name a few. ​
I would never have planned any of these adventures on my own. Josh thinks of everything on these trips and does all the planning for us. We just have to show up and have fun. ​
Not only do we travel all over the place and challenge ourselves with these great experiences, OTP also has fun local events like movies, hikes, themed gatherings, and of course, paddling. ​
My life has completely been changed since finding OTP. I used to have to wait around to drag somebody with me to travel somewhere and now I just look at the events and I don’t have to wait anymore."​
Member since 2022
Tapan Jain
“Before I joined the OTP hiking group and their MSC 2024 challenge, I was just kind of coasting. I’d do the same handful of hikes on autopilot—not bad, just… uninspired. I missed that feeling of discovery, of growing and being challenged. I didn’t realize how much I needed direction until I found this group.
​
The challenge gave me something to strive for—a real sense of purpose every weekend. It wasn’t just about checking off trails; it was about showing up, pushing myself, and seeing what I was capable of. But what surprised me the most was how much I learned just from being around other hikers. Some of them had already completed the challenge, and instead of just moving on, they stuck around to help the rest of us get there too. Watching them cheer others on, share tips, wait at trail junctions to make sure no one got left behind—that left a mark on me.
​
Those moments taught me more than any summit ever could. I learned humility, patience, and how meaningful it is to lift others up while chasing your own goals. That sense of camaraderie, of people genuinely rooting for each other, was incredibly powerful.
​
This challenge didn’t just make me a stronger hiker—it made me more grounded, more open, and more grateful. I’ve grown not only in endurance and confidence, but in character. It reminded me that the journey is so much richer when we help each other along the way. I came for the trails, but what I found was a deeper connection to nature, to people, and honestly—to myself.”
Member since 2024
Katy Icelow
“I joined Ocean to Peak Adventures in the Spring of 2024, hoping to explore new places and meet like-minded people to adventure with. After attending Joshua Tree on my first OTP multi-day adventure trip, I realized I had found so much more than I ever expected. I found a positive and uplifting Community where I am encouraged to be the strongest and most courageous version of myself; where I’ve pushed myself to hike further and more difficult trails, conquered my fears, and where I’ve made my goal of living an adventurous life become a reality. Every experience with OTP has been unique and positive adventure in new beautiful places and connecting with amazing people. I’m so grateful to have found this group and look forward to many more adventures!”
Member since 2024
Hannelore von Berrymann
​
“If you’re yearning for thrilling escapades with like-minded individuals, this is the perfect group for you! As a ‘mostly’ solo traveler, I never imagined I’d relish the joy of exploring new places with a group of friends. However, through this incredible group, my dreams have come true! I’ve ventured to destinations I never thought possible, all thanks to the amazing people in this group. Among them, I’ve found some truly remarkable individuals who have become my closest friends. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of this group and to participate in its extraordinary adventures. A heartfelt thank you to Josh for creating this safe and welcoming space for us adventurers. I eagerly anticipate many more unforgettable journeys with OTP!”
Member since 2023
Suzette Roberts
​
“My first trip with OTP was to Death Valley in 2022 and it was this trip that cemented my love for the group. I showed up having never pitched a tent and only knowing one person. I left with a passion ignited for the outdoors and life long friendships. Josh provides a warm and welcoming environment that makes space for everyone. I have participated in several trips and activities with OTP, such as Oregon waterfalls, North Coast, Joshua Tree, snow shoeing and paddle boarding. Josh provides a well detailed itinerary and ensures everyone is safe and has a good time. It’s been a pleasure being a member of this amazing community."
Member since 2022
Itzik Gilboa
“I Joined OTP in 2021. I was looking for a group of like minded people to hike with and enjoy the outdoors. I joined a group hike and really liked the vibe. I then joined a group camping event in Joshua Tree and really connected with some of the people I met there. OTP has brought together a remarkable group of people from all walks of life with, ranging in age from kids to people in their seventies. There is really something for everyone here. I have hiked and backpacked before but joining this group enabled me to really push myself to achieve more than I had thought possible for myself specifically at this point in my life. I got to experience and gain confidence in off trail travel, scrambling up class 3 and in some cases class 4 routes (and understanding what that actually means), snow travel with snowshoes, climbing with ice ax and crampons and climbing expert level mountains. I am grateful for the community Josh has created here, since I joined it tripled in size, but it still has maintained that community feel. Everyone celebrates each other’s achievements. If you are a lover of the outdoors no matter what your abilities are, I can’t think of a better group of people to spend time with.”
Member since 2021
Dorene Galvin-Strand
“Get up and get lost once in a while! Do something new, I told myself. I finally listened to myself in 2021. A friend introduced me to OTP. All I knew it was some type of adventure group, but what my friend showed me were some amazing picturesque views that didn’t seem real and not to mention that people actually were able to experience this in person! I had to see what this group was about.
Little did I know how this group was about to change my life!
About two months after my first hike with OTP, I was diagnosed with cancer in January of 2022. I had no idea what would happen, but had surgery and went into chemo and radiation the following eight months. What I did with OTP in those eight months was nothing I would have ever imagined. I started the OTP 2022 challenge and completed I think 16 hikes that year, all while I was in chemo and radiation! The support I received from the OTP family was something I never experienced. You meet so many amazing people that become great friends . You will experience those moments where you feel like you’re in heaven from breathtaking views and then cry from those same views feeling so blessed.
​
You can truly go from ocean to peaks, sunrises to sunsets, dirt to snow, but no matter what you choose, you have to choose to start something new.
Josh is amazing at making this community feel connected in every way and I couldn’t be more grateful!”
Member since 2021
Dan Bucsko
“In the many years of being a member of OTP I’ve made lifelong friends and gotten to many hikes that I otherwise never would have known of. The Mountain Summit Challenge (MSC) has different levels of difficulty that hikers of all abilities can participate in. The exponential growth of OTP over these years is directly proportional to the genuine kindness and inclusiveness that Josh Ochner continues to show new and existing members. The most impressive evidence of this is hearing countless compliments from other members in casual conversations with one another on hikes. I encourage anyone looking for positive energy in the outdoors to join!”
Member since 2021
Amanda T
"Oceans to Peak Adventures has been such a blessing. We are a military family and moved to Central California in the summer of 2021. We knew no one and had no idea where to start to explore this beautiful state. After a year of looking at all the cool events held and planned by Josh, we finally joined the Death Valley trip. It was amazing, and after that, I became hooked. I have now been to 6 and counting. Joshua Tree will always be a favorite. From these amazing trips, I have gained life-long friendships of amazing people from all walks of life and backgrounds. I have seen beautiful places that I wouldn't have been able to without the knowledge and time spent by Josh searching out these gems. Oceans to Peak challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and explore our world. Oftentimes, without knowing anyone. But the common love for our planet is the bond that bounds us all, creating beautiful memories and friendships. I will be sad when we move away from California but the great thing is that Oceans to Peak is branching out and I will always have friends to visit from all over the country due to this amazing community. I feel so fortunate to be a part of it and encourage my friends and family to join as well. You won't regret it.
Member since 2021
Payal Kr
“Being part of OTP has been a life-changing experience for me! What truly sets OTP apart is not just the thrill of exploring new adventures and places, but the way every event is planned with such care, passion and attention to detail. From the moment we set out (always bang on time), I know I’m in safe hands - whether it is Josh’s planning, spots selection or logistics - everything is seamless, and there’s always emphasis on safety without ever compromising the fun.
Each adventure feels like more than just a trip and an experience of a lifetime. Whether it’s hiking through the mountains and rainforests, camping under the stars, jumping off cliffs and waterfalls, or discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, I’ve found myself fully immersed in the beauty of nature and the excitement of trying something new. This group is truly one of a kind with the best part being the people joining you on these trips - a diverse, welcoming community where strangers quickly become friends, and the bond we build over shared challenges, encouragement and laughter is unforgettable.
Thanks to OTP and Josh, I’ve collected not only breathtaking memories but also the confidence to push my limits, step outside my comfort zone, and live more fully. For anyone looking for hella awesome adventures, meaningful connections, and stories worth telling for a lifetime with a group that feels like family, this is it!”
Member since 2020
Sondra S
“Ocean to Peak Adventures has given me so much more than incredible outdoor experiences — it's given me a second home. The care, passion, and heart that is poured into each journey creates a space where you feel supported, inspired, and truly alive and is what keeps me coming back for more. Every trip is thoughtfully planned, blending breathtaking landscapes with a true sense of community and adventure. Whether it’s a coastal hike, a mountain summit, or a hidden trail in between, every experience has been unforgettable. If you’re looking for a group that inspires, challenges, and connects you with nature—and amazing people — this is it!”
Member since 2020
​Jasmine Vogler
“I have been a part of OTP for a couple of years now. My first time out was the New Year’s group hike in Auburn and it was a really positive experience. I appreciated people mingling and chatting during the hike regardless of familiarity. Fast forward a little and there was an opportunity to go to Death Valley. I can plan a trip but not having to spend the time planning and relying on someone else’s expertise was enticing. I took the leap and joined the Death Valley trip solo. It 100% did not disappoint and I have been on a number of other events and trips since. The thing about OTP is you’re never going to feel alone. Everyone is warm, welcoming and excited to connect with others. I fall in love with every experience, but not just because of the unique, well-vetted adventure, it’s also the peace it brings to my soul through the combination of good, like minded people and passionate leadership. I have built so many genuine connections and run into other OTP members all the time in the wild (random events). It always feels exciting and I’m always thrilled to catch up. I couldn’t be more grateful to have joined this group and look forward to many, many more treasured moments together."