The Trailblazers Society

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Partners

2025 Partners!

About Us

LGBTQ Outdoors is a national nonprofit dedicated to connecting the LGBTQIA+ community with nature through inclusive hikes, camping trips, local chapter events, and LGBTQ Outdoorfest. Active in 23+ states, we create safe, affirming spaces where everyone can explore, heal, and belong outside. Our mission is to foster visibility, wellness, and community through outdoor adventure.

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By the numbers

Events Attended

We’ve hosted over 150 successful LGBTQ+ outdoor events nationwide.

Ambassadors Joined

With 85+ passionate ambassadors, our community is growing coast to coast.

States

Active in 23 states, LGBTQ Outdoors is building a nationwide movement.

Our Projects

Projects

100 Mile Club

Started in 2025, the LGBTQ Outdoors 100 Mile Club is your gateway to adventure, fitness, and community in the great outdoors. This unique program encourages participants to set personal goals and track progress as they walk, hike, run, paddle, bike or whatever the method is (other than motorize vehicle) their way to 100 miles—and beyond! Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting your journey, the 100 Mile Club is designed to inspire and motivate while celebrating every milestone along the way. With each 100-mile level you complete, you'll earn an exclusive LGBTQ Outdoors 100 Mile Club coin as a symbol of your achievement. Track your progress through Strava, join our vibrant community, and connect with others who share your passion for the outdoors. Your participation not only fuels your personal growth but also supports our mission to make the outdoors a more inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community. Are you ready to take the first step toward your next adventure? Join the 100 Mile Club today and let’s hit the trail together!

LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast

Launched in January 2023, the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast brings our mission to life through real conversations with queer adventurers, outdoor leaders, and everyday folks finding belonging in nature. Each episode explores the powerful intersection of identity and the outdoors—highlighting personal stories, community insights, and the ongoing work of creating safer, more inclusive outdoor spaces for all LGBTQIA+ people. From trail tales and festival chats to deep dives on environmental justice and representation, this is where connection happens—one story at a time.

Visability Survey

Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and safe in outdoor spaces. But too often, LGBTQIA+ voices are left out of the conversation—whether on the trail, in outdoor gear shops, or while working with guides and outfitters. That’s why we created the LGBTQ Outdoors Visibility Survey (LOVS)—a quick, confidential way to share your experiences, shape our future programming, and amplify our collective voice across the outdoor industry.

Ambassador Program

Our incredible LGBTQ Outdoors Ambassadors are the all-volunteer frontline of our community, combining a passion for the outdoors with the leadership skills needed to guide Local Chapters and foster inclusive outdoor experiences. Even if there is already an Ambassador in your area, we encourage you to apply—many regions have thriving LGBTQIA+ communities that can benefit from additional leadership.

All Projects

Make a difference monthly—join our Trailblazers Society today.

Support LGBTQ+ inclusion outdoors year-round. Join the Trailblazers Society and fuel connection, access, and joy.

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Our specialities

FAQs

We get it—trying something new can come with a lot of questions. Whether you're curious about our events, wondering how to get involved, or just need a little clarity, we’ve got you. Below are answers to the most common questions from our amazing community.

Justin Yoder

Founder, LGBTQ Outdoors

Is LGBTQ Outdoors a 501c3 nonprofit?

Yes, and all donations are tax-deductible.

I have never done any outdoor activities. How do I know if this is for me?

Let’s face it, a lot of times we don’t know if we will like something until we try it. If you are reading this your are obviously intrigued, so what do you have to loose? We do our best to make all our events, Ambassador events, and LGBTQ Outdoorfest fun and enjoyable, and can also be a challenge and opportunity to learn about yourself and the outdoors.

Why do you ask for a donation for ambassador events when I can enjoy the outdoors for free?

There are two main reasons we ask for a minimal donation for the events our Ambassadors host: The first is we learned if people have finances invested in an event, they are more likely to attend. The second reason is we are not only offering an outdoor activity, we are creating community. When you attend one of our Ambassador events, you will meet other people like yourself and become part of the LGBTQ Outdoors family. Our Ambassadors plan the logistics of your adventures, recruit others to join you, teach you about the activity if you are new to it, and help ensure your safety. All donations go toward operating costs.

Can I become an Ambassador?

If you have a passion for the outdoors, good leadership skills, enjoy teaching others, and are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community, then we encourage you to apply. You can learn more about the requirements and request an application on the Abassador signup page.

adventure awaits

Adventure Trips

Alaska Adventure

$1,980

Experience Alaska Up Close

Choose Your Path

Stay in Cozy Yurts

Unplug and Unwind

Visit Resurrection Bay & Portage Glacier

Inclusive & Empowering

Expert Local Guides

Wildlife Encounters

Shared Experience, Lifelong Bonds

For All Skill Levels

Book Now

Glacier National Park

$932

Visit Glacier’s Most Scenic Trails

Explore the Crown of the Continent

Experience the Going-to-the-Sun Road

See Wildlife Up Close

Connect Through Campfire Reflections

Learn as You Hike

Swim in Lake McDonald

Choose Your Challenge

LGBTQIA+ Led & Centered

Unplug & Recharge

Book Now

Great Smoky Mountains

$995

Explore the Most Visited National Park in the U.S.

Ride, Hike, Raft & Relax

Hike to Iconic Landmarks

Wildlife Encounters Await

Raft the Nantahala River

Ride the Appalachian Trail

Stay at Cades Cove Campground

Connect Around the Campfire

Guided by Passionate Leaders

Create Lasting Community

Book Now