HU Travellers Meeting California 2025
THE PREMIER OVERLAND ADVENTURE TRAVEL EVENT
FOR MOTORCYCLISTS & TRAVELLERS ON 2, 3 OR 4 WHEELS!
Help us celebrate 25 years of Horizons Unlimited Travellers Meetings!
Thursday Sep 18 to Sunday Sep 21, 2025 - Mariposa, California
It's All About Overland Adventure
Whether you're a seasoned veteran with wisdom to share or a complete novice hungry for ideas and guidance, it doesn't matter if you ride a motorcycle, a bicycle, or drive an expedition vehicle...Horizons Unlimited meetings are for everyone who dreams of adventure along the road less travelled.
Inspiring, Informing & Connecting
Some people value Horizons Unlimited events for what they learn from the unique line-up of presenters. Some people value the chance to discover new products and services at the trade stands. Some people value just kicking back with a beer among old friends and new.
Most people enjoy a little bit of everything, and everyone goes home fired-up for adventure with a smile on their face.
The event will include a packed schedule of presentations and activities. All within the relaxed and friendly atmosphere that Horizons Unlimited is known for.
Horizons Unlimited California Event Schedule
The event is taking place from Thursday Sep 18 to Sunday Sep 21, 2025.
The Registration Desk will open for check-ins at about noon on Thursday. Presentations begin at 2 pm. The event will draw to a close Saturday night, so you can get home Sunday.
Over the course of the event there will be heaps of talks, demonstrations, workshops, Q&A's, challenges and competitions, with many presentations being repeated so you won't miss out.
As well as hearing inspiring stories of overlanding adventure from around the world, you'll get the low-down on preparing for your journey, navigation, first-aid, photography, filming and a host of other essential topics. Whatever your past experience or future plans may be, there's something for everyone.
The draft schedule will be available here approximately 1 week before the event!
PLEASE NOTE: The schedule will change! All the presenters are volunteers and travelling, thus they may be delayed or unable to get there. Some may have anxiety attacks and be unable to perform! ;-) And sometimes travellers show up unexpectedly with great pics and stories, so we try to fit them in! Details of changes to presentation times or other matters of note will be posted at Registration and other locations.
Presenters at HU California 2025 so far...
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Sam ManicomDon't Forget the Laughter |
SAM MANICOM has been travelling for much of his life. After many extended backpacking, cycling, hitch-hiking journeys, he looked for something different. He passed his motorcycle test in six weeks and, three weeks later, he set off to travel the length of Africa. This planned one-year journey turned into an eight-year RTW.
Why travel? To learn about the world and to learn about ourselves. To face challenges, to ride the open road, to be surprised, to meet people, and so the list of travel magic goes on. The landscapes, cultures, and the histories of each country bring the world into multicolour 3D life. Fantastic. I often think that our bikes are the oil in the engine of the moving parts of our travels. For me, in addition to all those fantastic aspects and opportunities, it's the people we meet along the way that are key. This presentation is filled with some tales of drama, but mostly full of laughter. I hope you can join me.
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Rose Padilla & Chad Horton, Two Wheels Three SheetsFive Years in South America / |
1. Five Years in South America
We share the story of our 'accidental' evolution into moto-hobos, embracing the highs and lows of life on the road. From smuggling our Africa Twin across borders to being hijacked in the Amazon, the journey has been anything but ordinary. Join us as we recount the thrill of exploring the Altiplano, crossing the Amazon, and the countless lessons learned along the way.
2. Trials and Tribulations of YouTube: Social Media and Sponsorships
YouTube can be a deeply fulfilling platform, offering a creative outlet and a way to document and share your adventures. However, it can just as easily derail your journey, depending on your motivations and level of commitment.
In this discussion, we delve into the often unglamorous side of YouTube, exploring the business of content creation, and the pursuit of sponsorships as a means to fund your travels. We'll pull back the curtain to reveal the tricks of the trade and the sometimes harsh realities of the 'influencer grift' highlighting the balance between passion, authenticity, and the pressures of monetization.
ROSE PADILLA and CHAD HORTON of Los Angeles, California, recently returned to the United States after an extraordinary journey spanning over five years and 125,000 kilometers, exploring the remote and seldom-visited regions of South America. Their adventure followed the full length of the Pan-American Highway, from Deadhorse, Alaska, to Ushuaia, Argentina. Their journey included a two-month expedition through the heart of the Amazon Jungle, which included a month-long boat-hopping adventure along the Napo and Amazon rivers. This was followed by an unforgettable ride along the infamous Ghost Road and the Trans-Amazonian Highway.
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Craig Haggart and Flip MortonA Quick Ride from Yaviza to Sunnyvale / |
CRAIG HAGGART operates an electron accelerator in Palo Alto, California, and enjoys minor adventures like riding a Ninja 250 to Baja, moto-camping in the southwest on a CBR600 sport bike, racing a 1966 Honda CB160, riding in Costa Rica and Nicaragua on rented bikes, and, of course, volunteering at Horizons Unlimited California.
1. A Quick Ride from Yaviza to Sunnyvale
Shipping a bike from the U.S. to Panama and riding it back home.
I shipped my Versys 300 from California to Panama to experience the 5,300-mile ride through Central America and Mexico. To avoid fatally straining my marriage to a non-riding spouse, I did it in a little over 6 weeks. If you also feel the call of the road and would like to hear about a few practical aspects of riding in Latin America, please join me for this brief discussion of everyday issues: bike prep, documentation, insurance, border crossings, road conditions, language -- and staying happily married to someone who doesn't ride motorcycles.
2. Smaller Bikes for ADV Riding
Most of us have probably heard the truism that nobody comes home from an adventure ride saying, "I wish I'd ridden a larger bike." While that might not match everyone's experience, it is clear that lots of people do amazing trips on small - sometimes VERY small - motorcycles. If you've ever wondered about the practicality of doing a bit of adventure riding on a bike that you could actually pick up if it falls over, please join this discussion about the pros and cons of preparing and riding smaller bikes for travel. If you have personal experience to share, all the better -- audience participation is gladly encouraged!
LOTS of presentations to come! As people register to present we'll list them here.
How about you? We're all here to learn, and there's LOTS to learn! We want to do more presentations and seminars - but we need volunteers to give them! Any topic you can contribute having to do with motorcycle travel, maintenance, planning etc, lasting 20 minutes or more, would be great. Please contact us here to volunteer.
Previous Presenters at HU California have included...
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Sam ManicomUnder Asian Skies - The most colourful and culturally diverse part of the world? |
Under Asian Skies - The most colourful and culturally diverse part of the world?
Asia and the Middle East frequently have the reputation for being one of the most troubled parts of the world. Should an Overlander fear this reputation and stay at home? Common sense says not to expect smoke without fire, but that frequently the fire is tiny and should not extinguish dreams of travel across this stunningly beautiful continent. The terrain and cultural diversity make it almost impossible for a traveller not to be enthralled, challenged and delighted. This is a true continent of the unexpected. Give it enough time and respect and it will reveal its delights to you. Is Asia the most colourful and culturally diverse part of the world? I think so. But why?
Sam made his first solo trip age 16. He's travelled by bicycle, sail, backpack & has hitchhiked across Europe, Australia and New Zealand. His longest trip was 8 years & 200,000 miles by motorcycle around the world. Sam is a travel writer & author of 4 motorcycle travel books.
Excerpt from Sam's best-selling book, Under Asian Skies:
"... the blue van smashed into the bike from the left. It hurled us across to the central reservation, and I ended up wedged under the bike with petrol pouring out of the carburettors onto my legs…. On the other side of the reservation cars sped past, just by my head. I could hear them and feel their draft, but trapped under the bike I couldn't twist enough to see them or get further away. The first three people to get to me roared up on bikes. They were Australian Hell's Angels..."
'One of the best story tellers of adventure in the world today!'
'Gripping from start to finish. 'Truly inspiring writing!'
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Chantil and Travis Gill, Viajar MotoHow Much Does Full-Time Travel Cost? / |
1) How Much Does Full-Time Travel Cost?
Full-time traveling in Europe was less expensive than living in a home and raising a family. We share how much it cost us.
Full-time traveling is expensive, right? Not exactly. Travis and Chantil recently finished a 3.5-year overland tour of Europe and north Africa where they spent far less than what it cost them to live in a house in the United States and raise their family. They will share the complete cost of full-time motorcycle touring, including: accommodations, food, fuel, maintenance, ferry/parking fees, entertainment, and miscellaneous expenses. They will share their strategies for saving, budgeting, and getting the most out of a travel budget.
2) 3.5 Years in Europe and North Africa
We started a motorcycle journey of a lifetime in March 2020. After 3.5 years, 85k miles, and 53 countries, we're still loving it!
Travis and Chantil relocated to Europe for work in 2017 with nothing more than their two adventure motorcycles loaded with gear. While at their job in Germany, they realized they just couldn't travel enough with their limited vacation time, so they did what we all want to do: quit to start full-time traveling. However, their start date of March 2020 was not ideal. Despite a world-wide pandemic and the restrictions of a 90-day travel visa, they managed to ride through nearly every European country and a bit of north Africa.
They will share some of the highlights and challenges of full-time traveling over their last 3.5 years through 53 countries. They will discuss how to get insurance for a U.S. registered motorcycle, strategies for navigating the 90-day Schengen travel restrictions, and five tips for having a successful motorcycle adventure.
CHANTIL and TRAVIS GILL attended HU California 2015 where they were inspired to travel sooner than later. Since then, they've ridden most through Europe and a bit of north Africa over the past 3.5 years of full-time motorcycle overlanding. They share their adventures via UPSHIFT magazine and viajarMOTO.
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Mark Donham, Radioman Rides the WorldAfrica Calling and Side trip to northern India |
Africa Calling
During a RTW trip, "Africa Calling" shifted my plans.
Taking time to share my experiences riding in Southern Africa! Covering about 3 months of my RTW ride. How it all started, logistics, 2-3 videos (2-3 minutes each) and lots of personal stories.
Side trip to northern India
2 months in Northern India!! Flying into Dehli, India, renting a bike and riding into the high Himalayas was a big dream. come and listen to how this all began, having others join me, and how a "adventure within and adventure" can take shape. From Dehli to Manali over Rohtang pass and up to Lei. Riding the highest Motorable road, to the top of Khardung La. All on a rented Royal Enfield.
Mark's motorcycle journey was 2011-2014, riding around the US and Canada before venturing south through Mexico, central and South America with side trips to Galapagos and Antarctica, then onto India, New Zealand, across Australia and Southern Africa mostly on his F800GS. 31 months of riding, covering 26 countries, 6 continents, and 93,000+ miles!
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Lorraine ChittockBODA BABES RIDE! [Movie] |
This comedy/drama/road movie stars Tiffany Coates (who's ridden more miles on a motorcycle than any woman ever), Nicole Espinosa (motorcycle part designer), and adventurer/producer/editor Lorraine Chittock. The three women buy a used motorcycle in Uganda with the goal of delivering the bike to an award-winning wildlife ranger. Will these three motorcycle-loving babes make good on their promise? Watch the Boda Babes Ride!
LORRAINE CHITTOCK has flown from her current residence in Tanzania for the first phase of her world tour presenting BODA BABES RIDE! Horizons Unilmited California will be the first moto event of the tour! She's presented at HU South Africa, three times in California, once in Virginia, and once in Mexico. Previous adventures include crossing the Libyan Desert with 200 camels and driving an ex-surveillance van down to Ushuaia with two dogs. She first rode in 1976 on her dad's Bultaco before buying a 360 CB Honda, which she used for her first solo adventure across California at 18. The adventures never end!
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Jeremy Kroeker, Motorcycle TherapyThrough Dust and Darkness - KLR 650 through the Middle East |
Through Dust and Darkness - Crappy KLR through Europe, Middle East & North Africa.
Jeremy is a Mennonite with a motorcycle. When his seemingly unflinching faith in a Christian worldview begins to shift, Kroeker hops on his bike to seek answers from another perspective. After shipping his ride to Europe, Kroeker discovers that the machine wobbles back and forth worse than his own opinions about spirituality. Still, he caries on, oscillating through Europe—Germany, Austria, Croatia, Albania—and into the Middle East - Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and, ultimately, Iran.
It is there, in the theocratic nation of Iran, that Kroeker finds himself on a forbidden visit to a holy Muslim Shrine. Once inside, invisible hands reach into his chest and rip from his heart a sincere prayer, his first in many years. And God hears that prayer. For before Kroeker can escape Iran, God steals into his hotel room one night to threaten him with death. At least, that's one way to look at it...
Jeremy Kroeker is a freelance writer, a speaker, and the award-winning author of two books, 'Motorcycle Therapy: A Canadian Adventure in Central America' and 'Through Dust and Darkness: A Motorcycle Journey of Fear and Faith in the Middle East.' With his motorcycle, he has traveled to 30 countries while managing to do at least one outrageously stupid thing in every one. He has evaded police in Egypt, tasted teargas in Israel, scrambled through minefields in Bosnia and Lebanon, and wrangled a venomous snake in Austria. One time he got a sliver in El Salvador.
Jeremy's most recent book is 'Motorcycle Messengers'. Ask him to autograph it for you!
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Spencer HahnAlaska to Ushuaia / |
SPENCER HAHN has loved solo motorcycle travel for over a decade, riding across five continents and 50+ countries. He attended his first Horizons Unlimited meeting as a novice rider with a dream and now hopes to inspire and encourage others to follow theirs, too!
1) Alaska to Ushuaia
Following the Panamerican Highway from the Arctic Ocean to the End of the World
Follow along the first half of Spencer's RTW journey from Indiana to Alaska, then south again through Central America, across the Darien Gap, and down through South America to Tierra del Fuego. Learn about trip prep, border logistics, sites to see, people to visit, and what to expect.
2) Korea to Morocco
East from the Pacific to the Atlantic
Follow the second half of Spencer's journey around the world on his motorcycle, starting at the Pacific Ocean and eastward to the Atlantic. He'll cross Siberia, Mongolia, Central Asia ("the 'Stans"), Southern Europe, and North Africa.
3) Mongolia
The land of the eternal blue sky
Soak up Spencer's three-month journey through the remote Mongolian outback, visiting ancient Buddhist temples, crossing the Gobi Desert, and living with goat herders along the way.
4) Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia
Southeast Asia on a shoestring
Spencer journeys across Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia on his $200 motorcycle. Learn what makes this trip so cheap, easy, and special.
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Sue TaylorCan I Get Paid to Do This? / |
Can I Get Paid to Do This?
Ever wonder how you can make money with your passion for riding?
Want to help new riders learn to riders? Want to fine tune experienced riders to ride better? Safer? Want to improve your own riding abilities? Want to get paid for this? Then becoming a motorcycle instructor might just be for you. Please come and learn to what it takes to become certified, what's required, and find out all the details. There are sites throughout the U.S. and many are looking to hire instructors, mechanics, site managers, and admin staff.
SUE TAYLOR has been riding for about 25 years. She has travelled to many countries, from Alaska to Africa to Iceland to Bolivia, and many more. She's a CA Motorcycle Instructor - Advanced Level 1. That means she teaches the basic, intermediate, advanced (and track), Harley Davidson-specific, and three-wheel.
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Gene Sherman, AmboRVCritical Fitness & Food for Adventure Riders |
Adventure riding (and everyday life) is physically and mentally demanding. If our fitness or nutrition is neglected, bad things can and will happen. Strong, healthy, and properly fed humans withstand fatigue, are less injury prone, are more alert, are better riders, and are able to endure high stress situations.
I will cut through the BS that we are "fed" from the media, exercise experts, and fad diet people. I'll keep it simple and provide science-based solutions to the most effective exercises and eating habits. This critical information can be use before, during, and after you epic rides. I'll show you how to move from illness, to wellness, and then to fitness. Life-changing information in simple terms. I'll also share my most trusted sources for those who want to learn more.
GENE SHERMAN is a lifelong maker, inventor, author, teacher, public speaker, motorcycle rider, and Crossfit coach. His motorcycles have ranged from trials, to cruisers, and dual sports, but adventure bikes give him the most joy. He has ridden all over the southwestern U.S. and looks forward for his RTW trip in the future.
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Justin Gray, Mission Adventure [EXHIBITOR]Baja Trip Planning |
Justin spent many vacations travelling Baja on two wheels and started a tour company Mission Adventure to bring adventure tours and training to California, Nevada, Oregon, and Baja. He's here to help you plan your next/upcoming Baja adventure.
Check out the Mission Adventure trailer and demo bikes on-site.
JUSTIN GRAY has been in the motorcycle industry for 30 years as a Master BMW Technician. He started his tour company Mission Adventure three years ago and is adding Kove motorcycles to the fleet.
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Richard Battles, RKA LuggageRKA Presents Luggage Applications / |
Communications Seminar
The future of communications is NOT the future - it is here.
Remember when you all walked by our booth and said, "Bluetooth is not here yet"? Then years later you now say, "Bluetooth is too complicated". This seminar shows you that Bluetooth is "here" now and is only as complicated as you make it. There are choices for you now. Think outside the box. MESH … this is the NEW communication platform, BUT even Bluetooth hold-outs can join in and I will show you how.
RICHARD BATTLES and KATHY STORIN are the founders of RKA motorcycle luggage, designed and manufactured in Sonoma County, California. Started in Mom's garage in 1985, RKA grew to offer many products, including a communications tankbag, SENA Bluetooth products, luggage, and more. Richard is possibly the most SENA-savvy person outside of the SENA offices.
It's time to regain your riding legs - maybe you've been brushing up on your skills, or maybe it's long past time you did? Got a new Adventure bike, and finding it a little intimidating? Your first experience on gravel was terrifying, or disastrous?
Get an extra confidence boost by taking off-road and slow speed skills training at the CanWest event!
Sign up when you register!
Rob Day of Adventure Motorcycle Professionals (AdvMotoPros.com) will be offering basic clinics for adventure riders at this event for only $169/rider, a $200+ value you won't want to miss!
Rob began riding adventure motorcycles in 2012. This led to a much deeper involvement in the adventure community, and in 2018 he left his 20-year career with Fox Sports to pursue this passion full time. He has ridden several Backcountry Discovery Routes including the CABDR-S, COBDR, IDBDR (twice), and parts of the WABDR, ORBDR, AZBDR. He has also ridden in central Mexico and Colombia twice.
Rob spent seven years with a private company as a Senior Coach and Tour Leader, starting in 2015. During that time, he trained hundreds of riders and led many tours. These included the Continental Divide, Death Valley, Baja, and others. He takes great care to ensure his clients enjoy their trips and arrive safely at each destination.
Rob is also a member of U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association with certifications for dirt and street. Membership includes a federal-level background check, and additional First-Aid/CPR endorsements for cardiac, concussion, and heat related injuries.
Rob is also a state-certified Total Control Training Inc. basic and intermediate riding instructor, and Harley-Davidson certified Riding Academy instructor. He recently received a commendation from the California Highway Patrol for his continued efforts reducing motorcycle accidents and fatalities while working as the Chief Instructor for Bartels' Riding Academy.
Along with his extensive expertise with BMW's R1200/1250 GS platforms, Rob is also a Harley-Davidson Pan America product specialist and has been involved with this project since before the bike was available to the public. He was a Lead Coach at the Pan America Experience in 2021 in the Mojave Desert, and his team managed the success of the Pan America press launch. They also trained Harley-Davidson corporate and dealership personnel how to ride these machines off road throughout 2021.
Rob continues this work as an independent contractor for Harley-Davidson, traveling to events around the country including the Tennessee Motorcycles and Music Revival, and the 120th Anniversary Homecoming Celebration in Milwaukee. He also travels to different regions providing training in local adventure communities for dealerships in those areas. At the current time, no single person has trained more riders on the Pan America than Rob has.
Rob's safety record is unparalleled in this industry, something he is very proud of.
He also loves to make training fun, and loves to share that fun with his students. He has a knack for getting even the most anxious students to relax and enjoy themselves. Relaxation is the key to adventure riding, and laughter is often the first step to get there!
Sign up EARLY, when you register, as we expect to be fully booked for these classes!
If you have ALREADY registered for California 2025, and would like to add a training class, go HERE to register for training.
Panel discussions at most HU events include...
Border crossings - How to get through borders with minimal stress and cost!
Packing light - Tips and techniques from experienced travellers to reduce weight and bulk.
Regional discussions - e.g. travelling in South America or Asia.
For Women Only - A must for the ladies, so be sure to plan on being there! A chance to talk to experienced travelling women without the men around!
Experienced Travellers Panel - ask the experts anything you want!
Walk arounds / Show and tell!
Tool Kits - Show us your favorite tools. Toolkit discussion.
Tents and Bedding discussion (in the camping area) - What works, cheap vs dear and which ones keep you dry, warm and comfy!
Farkle Walk - Take a stroll and talk about your best bike mods - homemade saddle bags, toolbox mounts, GPS mounts, seats, side stands, tank panniers, cup holders, etc.
The Adventure Travel Zone
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Test Your Mettle at the HU California Skills Course! Looks what's back in 2025! The HU California Skills Course is always a big attraction, giving you the opportunity to practice your skills on a fun and challenging course, and to learn new skills from other riders. From the Slow Bike Challenge to the Keyhole, Slalom and much more, you'll have a blast. Practice and Challenge on Saturday.
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Exhibitors - More to come!
Talk to Adrian Mercado of Legendary Bill Mayer Saddles on-site about the ultimate craftmanship in custom motorcycle saddles. It's a serious upgrade to your riding experience. |
Justin and Ken Gray of Mission Adventure are on-site with lots of information about their tours in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Baja on Kove motorcycles. There may be a couple of demo bikes to test out!. Don't miss Justin's presentation, "Baja Trip Planning". |
If you know of any other motorcycle or travel equipment vendors or tour operators who should be there, please suggest it to them!
Exhibitors, more details and registration here. Please contact us if you have more questions.
Facilities for a Fantastic Four Days
Mariposa County Fairgrounds
5007 Fairgrounds Road,
Mariposa CA 95338
A wide range of bikes at HU California
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Presentation Rooms
Largest indoor room - capacity 400! Large covered outdoor pavilions and more!
Campsite & parking
The extensive campsite area is on flat, well-drained, ground with a few 10amp power hook-ups and water outlets. There are a number of secluded areas nestled next to woodland as well as RV parking around the perimeter of the main camping area.
If you need to use the electric hook-ups there are some through the grounds.
Motorcycles will be allowed to park in the camping area. RVs will have a separate parking area. Cars, vans & trucks with trailers must be parked in the main parking lot. Please help to conserve the fields for future events by not skidding, wheel-spinning, etc. The organizers reserve the right to restrict vehicle movement and parking subject to weather and ground conditions.
Note: Camping prior to Thursday is $20/night and payable in cash to the fairgrounds.
No Fires
There's a strict 'no fires' policy across the whole site, but camping stoves and BBQs are allowed. There will be no individual camp fires allowed. There may be a group camp fire.
The official bonfire!
Noise
Our contract with the venue has a midnight noise curfew. This applies to music and also if you're staying offsite, please leave quietly after midnight and be considerate of the older folks who are trying to sleep. ;-)
Showers & Toilets
There are 12 showers in 2 separate buildings by the camping area as well as the many toilets. The toilets and showers, and all the areas within the grounds have wheelchair access.
Children & Dogs
Horizons Unlimited is naturally keen to inspire the next generation of adventure travelers so you're welcome to bring your children along if you wish, but do bear in mind that the event is for adults (with adult themes and language) and we won't have any specific kids' activities. Children under 14 years old get in for free. Please note that the health and safety of your children is your responsibility and they must be supervised by you at all times. Children will not be allowed in any of the presentations from 8pm onwards each evening.
You'll need to ensure your pet remains on a lead at all times and doesn't damage or foul the site. Owners of noisy or aggressive dogs may be asked to leave.
Relaxing
Lots of places to sit and chat
Yosemite National Park is just down the road!
Food, glorious food!
For 2025, we're pleased to announce that we have a new caterer!
Soufflé Cakes & Catering is looking forward to making great meals for us. And some of us noticed the word "cakes" so we expect great desserts! yum!)
For 2025 you will also have the option to prebook breakfasts and/or lunches on site. We recommend you pre-book the meals with your registration. There will be limited amounts available for purchase at the event. You can, of course, cook for yourself, or go to cafes or restaurants in Mariposa.
Pre-book pricing - (meals are at our cost): breakfast $21, lunch $25, dinner $37 (including a yummy dessert!).
ALL TAXES AND TIPS are included!
You won't go away hungry, and can always go back for more - try that in a restaurant!
Confirmed Menu:
Thursday Dinner - Green Chicken & Vegetarian Enchiladas
- Shredded Chicken mixed with a blend of cheeses & sour cream, rolled in flour tortillas & topped with a green chili sauce.
- Vegetarian with black beans, corn, bell peppers & black olives, sauteed with fire roasted
green chilis, onion and spices, rolled in flour tortillas & topped with green chili sauce & cheese. - Whole Black Beans & Cilantro Lime Rice
- Tossed Garden Salad
- Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water
- Dessert - Strawberry Shortcake w/Fresh Whipped Cream
Friday Breakfast
- Biscuits and Black Pepper Gravy
- With or w/o Sausage
- Scrambled eggs
- Fresh Fruit
- Juice/Coffee/Tea/Water
Friday lunch - BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- BBQ Pulled Pork on Rolls
- Coleslaw
- Chips
- Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water
Friday dinner - Taste of Hawaii
- Hawaiian Grilled Shoyu Chicken Thighs, topped with green onion & sesame seeds.
- Vegetarian Kabobs with Fresh Pineapple Chunks, Seasonal Squash, Bell Peppers, Mushrooms & Red Onion, skewered and grilled, finished with a Hawaiian Glaze.
- White Rice
- Hawaiian Mac Salad
- Tossed Garden Salad
- Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water
- Dessert - Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Saturday Breakfast
- Breakfast Sandwich - egg with ham, bacon, or no meat & cheddar cheese.
- Fresh Fruit
- Assorted Pastries
- Juice/Coffee/Tea/Water
Saturday lunch - Tri Tip Sandwich
- Tender Thin-Sliced BBQ Tri Tip on Hoagie Roll
- Top w/ Grilled Onion, Creamy Horseradish & BBQ Sauce
- Potato Salad
- Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water
Saturday dinner - Italian
- Classic Meat Lasagna - Pasta sheets layered with a homemade Marinara Meat sauce,
Herbed Ricotta Cheese blend & Mozzarella cheese. - Vegetarian Lasagna - Pasta sheets layered with a homemade Marinara sauce, Sauteed
Seasonal Veggies, Herbed Ricotta cheese blend & Mozzarella cheese. - Caesar Salad w/ Parm & Croutons
- Garlic Bread
- Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water
- Dessert - Chocolate Cake
Vegetarian and special diets
There will be a vegetarian option offered at each meal - we will need numbers for these, so please indicate when you register if you wish a vegetarian meal.
Special diets may be accommodated with advanced notice within reason - be sure to PRE-REGISTER to be SURE, or at the latest when you register on the day. Also TELL the SERVERS you've asked for a special meal, and give them your name, and they'll get it for you.
Alcohol
You are welcome to bring your own alcohol to the event, but we reserve the right to expel without reimbursement any attendee who becomes intoxicated and/or causes a disturbance.
Ye Olde Beer Garden
I've already registered - I just want to pay!
PRE-REGISTRATION PRICING FOR FULL PASSESIncludes admission to all slide shows, tech clinics, demonstrations, workshops and exhibitor areas on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. |
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Pre-Register & Pay: |
Event Price |
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Before March 30, 2025 Before June 1, 2025 Before September 11, 2025 |
69 79 89 |
AT THE EVENT PRICING (APPLIES AFTER September 10)Pay Cash or PayPal on Arrival |
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Full 4 Day Pass Weekend-Only Pass (arrive after Friday 6PM) |
109 79 |
MEALS (see menu above)We recommend pre-booking meals. There MAY be individual meals available at a higher price at the event. There will be vegetarian alternatives, so let us know your preferences when you register. NOTE: Prices INCLUDE TAX AND GRATUITY. |
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Thursday Dinner - Green Chicken & Vegetarian Enchiladas - Shredded Chicken mixed with a blend of cheeses & sour cream, rolled in flour tortillas & topped with a green chili sauce. Vegetarian with black beans, corn, bell peppers & black olives, sauteed with fire roasted green chilis, onion and spices, rolled in flour tortillas & topped with green chili sauce & cheese. Whole Black Beans & Cilantro Lime Rice. Tossed Garden Salad. Strawberry Shortcake w/Fresh Whipped Cream. Iced Tea / Lemonade/ Water |
37 |
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Friday Breakfast - Biscuits and Black Pepper Gravy With or w/o Sausage. Scrambled eggs. Fresh Fruit. Juice/Coffee/Tea/Water |
21 |
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Friday Lunch - BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches - BBQ Pulled Pork on Rolls. Coleslaw. Chips. Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water |
25 |
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Friday Dinner - Taste of Hawaii - Hawaiian Grilled Shoyu Chicken Thighs, topped with green onion & sesame seeds. Vegetarian Kabobs with Fresh Pineapple Chunks, Seasonal Squash, Bell Peppers, Mushrooms & Red Onion, skewered and grilled, finished with a Hawaiian Glaze. White Rice. Hawaiian Mac Salad. Tossed Garden Salad. Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water |
37 |
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Saturday Breakfast - Breakfast Sandwich - egg with ham, bacon, or no meat & cheddar cheese. Fresh Fruit. Assorted Pastries. Juice/Coffee/Tea/Water |
21 |
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Saturday Lunch - Tri Tip Sandwich - Tender Thin-Sliced BBQ Tri Tip on Hoagie Roll. Top w/ Grilled Onion, Creamy Horseradish & BBQ Sauce. Potato Salad. Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water |
25 |
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Saturday Dinner - Italian - Classic Meat Lasagna - Pasta sheets layered with a homemade Marinara Meat sauce, Herbed Ricotta Cheese blend & Mozzarella cheese. Vegetarian Lasagna - Pasta sheets layered with a homemade Marinara sauce, Sauteed Seasonal Veggies, Herbed Ricotta cheese blend & Mozzarella cheese. Caesar Salad w/ Parm & Croutons. Garlic Bread. Chocolate Cake. Iced Tea/Lemonade/Water |
37 |
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ACCOMMODATIONCamping is available on site at a good price. Price (per person) for Thurs, Fri and Sat is as follows. NOTE: Camping prior to Thursday is $20/night and payable in cash to the fairgrounds. |
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3 Nts |
2 Nts |
1 Nt |
|
Camping |
50 |
40 |
20 |
days to go!
Join the discussion:
On the HUBB!
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What happens at HU events?
Comments about HU California
"This was my first HU meeting and I had an absolute blast meeting so many like minded folks who just love their motorcycles. The presentations were great and I am looking forward to next year!"
"That was SO MUCH fun!! When can we do it again??"
"WOW!! A ton of info and $$$ well spent! So many trips, tips, subjects, discussions, questions, answers, experiences, insights... I could go on and on. I will be back, and back, and back. Next time hopefully I can contribute as a presenter. Thanks Grant & Susan"
"Thank you all for such a superb extended weekend. So good to see everyone, to hear so many stories, to learn so much, and just to feel so at home with my tribe. Thanks to you my batteries are fully recharged and rarin' to go!"
"I loved the event, the people, the presentations, the food, I loved it all!"
"The catered food was very good and the staff was awesome!"
"The friendly atmosphere was fantastic and even though I arrived by myself and only knew one person there I felt among friends. Keep up the good work."
"I think you all do a great job with this event. I appreciate the effort."
"It was really well organized and the meeting rooms were perfect - even the outdoor ones."
"SO Many Friendly people!"
"Great new venue, much more space. Camping was excellent. Big presentation rooms."
"...everyone left their egos at home, because it's all about the adventure."
"Nice location- good rides and town near by. Large space- easy to get around and nice to be able to camp next to your bike."
"People were very friendly, open and easy to talk to. A great way to network with other travelers."
"Excellent mix of different types of presentations."
"It was like being with family...a friendly group with shared love of adventure."
"Everyone was humble, genuine, and encouraging, and I really needed that kind of 'we're all just people' kind of atmosphere."
Be a Presenter
We're inviting submissions for presentations, so whether you're attending the event or exploring a distant continent, if you've got a story to tell or expertise to share we'd like to hear from you.
We love to hear stories about your travel adventures, especially if you have great pics! Also, practical how-to sessions such as roadside cooking, navigation / GPS, trip prep and planning, adventure motorcycling medicine, packing light, setting your bike up, communications / blogging from the road, self-publishing your story, yoga for bikers, bodging / bike maintenance, self-defense, photography, videography, tire repair, safe riding techniques, how to pick up your bike, off-road riding, all are of interest.
There are 45 minute and 100 minute sessions available for talks, workshops, demos and live web chats.
Click here to submit your ideas
PLEASE NOTE:
Submitting a Presenter registration DOES NOT mean you will automatically be included in the schedule, as we can have more presenters than available presentation slots. We will confirm one way or the other as soon as we can (but not immediately!)
Book your Exhibitor Stand space
Over the course of the event, this Horizons Unlimited travellers Meeting offers a unique opportunity to build awareness of your brand and talk directly to potential customers.
The Adventure Travel Zone occupies a central position at the event site and is exclusive to trade stands representing the overland adventure travel market.
Choose between our Premium and Standard packages, both of which include on-site advertising and can include a presentation about your products and services. If you would also like to do a presentation, be sure to tick the Presentation box when you register.
You can help!
If you have a few minutes, please download the poster (Adobe pdf format) and print off a few and hand them round your club or your local bike shop or anywhere seems like a good place.
Poster in pdf format (1.5 MB) full colour 8.5 x 11 Event poster:
POSTCARD
Postcard in pdf format (460 KB) full colour Event postcard:
Postcard - 4 to a page
(1.2 MB)
You may need to right click and choose "save target as..."
Thanks!
Join the Volunteer Crew
From welcoming travellers at the gate, to taking care of the campsite and making sure all the presentations run smoothly, the success of every HU event relies on the enthusiasm of its volunteer crew.
"What a wonderful bunch of people. I had no idea how much fun I'd have by helping out!"
"It was my absolute pleasure to be able to give something back to the HU community and working with such great folks really made the event special."
Volunteering is a great way to make new friends, get more involved with Horizons Unlimited and have loads of fun! You can sign up to volunteer when you register for the meeting, OR click here if you have already registered and want to add volunteering.
Departing or Returning?
If you're planning an expedition, why not make the Horizons Unlimited meeting your official start point? Or maybe you're nearing the completion of a journey and would like a very public welcome home? Of course you might just be passing through and fancy marking a key stage of your travels?
We'd love to make you a big part of the meeting, so feel free to get in touch and tell us your plans.
California Venue Location
Mariposa County Fairgrounds
5007 Fairgrounds Road,
Mariposa CA 95338
37.465408,-119.944230
View Larger Map
Mariposa is:
167 miles from San Francisco (via Hwy 99S)
294 miles from Los Angeles (via Hwy 99)
70 miles from Fresno and the Central Valley
Information about the area
From wineries to zip lines, gold panning to horseback riding, there's heaps to see in the Yosemite area! You should plan to stay a few days.
Adventures & Tours
Horseback Riding at Yosemite's South Entrance - ranging from 1 hour to 1/2 day.
Yosemite Close Up Tours daily guided tours, including hiking and custom tours.
Grant climbing in Yosemite ;-)
For something a little less strenous,
Try the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, scenic steam trains.
Really Hungry? the Happy Burger Diner has the largest menu in the Sierra, including vegetarian, and their burgers are great!
Local Bike Shops
Let us know any good dealers nearby!
Cycle Specialties BMW/Triumph
1201 North Carpenter Road
Modesto, CA
Phone:
209-524-2955
BMW Ducati Triumph Indian
Herwaldt Motorsports 5615 E. Westover Fresno, CA 93727 Phone: 559-292-2269 Toll Free 866-811-4269
Honda Kawasaki Yamaha Suzuki
Merced Powersports 265 West 15th Street Merced CA 95340 Phone: 209-722-8055
Local Hosts
Flip Morton is the local host for this event, supported by Craig Haggart, Anja Seitz, Darren Holloway, and a great team of volunteers. We're VERY grateful to them for stepping up and making it happen with a lot of legwork and effort.
We can always use help on the day - please volunteer to help out for a couple of hours when you register!
HU Events Refund Policy
Like adventures, life can throw surprises our way. Stuff happens. While we would love for you to join the fun and connect with everyone at our events, we understand that you (and the funds) may be needed elsewhere. We'll catch up later!
On our side, we know you appreciate that we have financial commitments to venues and caterers!
The best way to let us know that you're unable to attend an event is to reply to the Registration Confirmation Email you got from us when you first signed up.
Up to 30 days prior to event start, we will refund all fees in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration and all fees to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year.
Up to 15 days prior to event start, we will refund only the camping/accommodation and food packages in full less a $10 (or €9 or £8) handling fee and PayPal charges. At your request, we can apply your Event Registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU Event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
Within 15 days of the event start, there will be no refunds. At your request, we can apply your registration fee (with no handling fee) to any subsequent HU event you wish in that year or following year. If you purchased a t-shirt, we will ship it to the mailing address you provide.
If WE cancel an event:
We are constantly evaluating the situation for every event, and very much err on the side of caution. We will endeavour to announce "Final" decision one month or more before the event, but the situation COULD change closer to time, and we could be required by law to cancel.
If we are forced to cancel for COVID or natural disaster, we will roll your registration over to next year automatically.
If you want to transfer your existing registration to any other HU event in the world, just let us know.
Need a full refund? PLEASE REPLY to your original Registration Confirmation email to make it easier for us to find. If you can't find it, please email a request to: events-c (AT) horizonsunlimited(-)com with the subject line: "Refund event-name event-year"
Next HU Events
Be sure to join us for this huge milestone!
ALL Dates subject to change.
2025 Confirmed Events:
Virginia: April 24-27
Queensland is back! May 2-5
Germany Summer: May 29-June 1
Ecuador June 13-15
Bulgaria Mini: June 27-29
CanWest: July 10-13
Switzerland: Aug 14-17
Romania: Aug 22-24
Austria: Sept. 11-14
California: September 18-21
France: September 19-21
New York: October 9-12 
Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2
2026 Confirmed Dates:
(get your holidays booked!)
Virginia: April 23-26
Queensland: May 1-4
CanWest: July 9-12
Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!
Questions about an event? Ask here
New to Horizons Unlimited?
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80 G/S motorcycle. The website, HUBB forum and regular events across the globe have inspired thousands of people to follow their dreams and take the road less travelled.
Membership - Show you're proud to be a Horizons Unlimited Traveller!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love overland adventure travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events such as this one (18 this year!); we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, the HUBB or to receive the e-zine. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
You can join at a reduced rate as part of your meeting registration. Note that new Memberships with your Meeting Registration are applied as of the Meeting date or as soon as possible thereafter, not earlier, unless you make a special request in the Comments box when you register.