Filtering by: Far West
Stargazing in Joshua Tree - California
Mar
29
4:00 PM16:00
Far West

Stargazing in Joshua Tree - California

Stargazing in Joshua Tree - California

March 29, 2025 — 4:00pm - 10:00pm ET
Rain date: April 5, 2025
Last day to register: March 27, 2025

Join TVOP Volunteer Alex in the gorgeous Joshua Tree desert. We'll be taking advantage of the moonless weekend and enjoying some stargazing 10 minutes outside of the Joshua Tree National park entrance. Come enjoy dinner, a campfire, and hopefully some views of the Milky Way.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Joshua Tree, California (Newe Sogobia (Western Shoshone), Yuhaaviatam/Maarenga’yam (Serrano) lands)
Parking: Free parking at the event site
Pets: Friendly furry friends are allowed at this event.
Meet: March 29, 2025
Cost: $0-$20 sliding scale + $30 day pass to Joshua Tree National Park. Tip: You can borrow a National Parks day pass from your local library!
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Water, snacks, blanket, chair, warm layers.

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

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Canyon Hike & Brunch - California
Apr
26
9:00 AM09:00
Far West

Canyon Hike & Brunch - California

Canyon Hike & Brunch - California

April 26, 2025 — 9:00am - 12:00pm PT
Last day to register: April 24, 2025

Join TVOP Volunteer Alex on a beginner-friendly hike in Southern California. This gently climbing trail located in an Orange County Wilderness Park makes it way up an oak woodland canyon, eventually ending in a smooth red rock canyon that you might expect somewhere in Arizona, but is unique to SoCal. This area is rich in wildlife, and we're likely to see squirrels, lizards and a variety of birds, and, if we're lucky, mule deer. This Wilderness Park encompasses approximately 2,500 acres of riparian and oak woodland canyons, rolling grassland hills and steep slopes of coastal sage scrub and chaparral. This is a mellow / beginner hike, and there will be an option to grab brunch after at a local spot nearby.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park (Tongva (Gabrieleno) and Acjachemen (Juaneño) lands)
Parking: $3 day parking fee, or included with purchase of $80 Orange County Parks & Beaches Annual Parking Pass
Pets: While we love pets, we ask that furry friends stay home for this adventure.
Meet: April 26, 2025
Hike: 4.2 miles, 470 ft elevation gain
Cost: $0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: 1 liter/32 oz of water, snacks, electrolytes, hat, and sunscreen

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

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We Love LA: Challenge Hike - California
Feb
23
6:30 AM06:30
Far West

We Love LA: Challenge Hike - California

We Love LA: Challenge Hike - California

February 23, 2025 — 6:30am-3:30pm PT
Last day to register: February 21, 2025

Join TVOP Volunteer Alex on this challenge hike in honor of the resilience and love of the Los Angeles community.

This 14 mile hike off the beaten path in Angeles National Forest provides views of downtown LA, Catalina Island, and Mt. Baldy at its highest viewpoint. There are several stream crossings and stunning canyon views as we move along this challenging loop trail that starts with a climb during the first four miles, then steadily makes its way down for the rest of the 10 mile loop.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Angeles National Forest (Fernandeño Tataviam and Tongva / Gabrieleno land)
Parking: Ample free parking at the event meeting location
Pets: Friendly dogs on leash are welcome. Pet owners must be able to carry an appropriate amount of water for each dog as there are no reliable water sources on the trail.
Meet: February 23, 2025
Hike: 14 miles, 3,350 ft elevation gain
Cost: $0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: 3 liters of water, lunch, snacks, electrolytes, sunscreen and SPF-rated shirt, layers such as a light jacket or sweater, hat, sunglasses, trekking poles, insect repellent, and long pants to protect against poison ivy.

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

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New Year's Day Challenge Hike - California
Jan
1
6:30 AM06:30
Far West

New Year's Day Challenge Hike - California

New Year's Day Challenge Hike - Saddleback Mountain, California

January 1, 2024 — 6:30am-5:00pm PT
Last day to register: December 28, 2024

TVOP SoCal is kicking off 2025 in a big way - taking on one of the most challenging day hikes in Southern California, with the goal of summiting Santiago Peak. The Acjachemen tribes refer to this peak as Kalawpa, with the nearby village of Alume meaning "to raise the head in looking upward," in reference to the mountain. On a clear day, you can see everything from Downtown LA to Catalina Island. We'll be starting off the day early and attempting to finish by 5pm.

This scenic trail weaves through Cleveland National Forest, crossing streams, switchbacks, and a few areas with light scrambling through boulders.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Trabuco Canyon area (Acjachemen lands)
Parking: The parking area is a dirt circular space - you shouldn't have to worry about finding a spot.
Pets: While we love dogs, we ask that you please leave furry friends at home for this event. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: January 1, 2025
Hike: 16-20 miles, 4,160 ft elevation gain
Cost: $0-$20 sliding scale + $5 Permit from Rangers Office, California Adventure Pass, or National Parks Pass.
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Santiago Peak is a proper backcountry hike. Come prepared with at least 3 liters of water, insect repellant, sunscreen, trekking poles, layers you can take on and off for comfort (snow is rare but can happen!), and hiking shoes with enough grip for loose rocks and terrain. Bring plenty of electrolytes, snacks, and food for breakfast/lunch. Your TVOP volunteer will be equipped with a first aid kit and satellite SOS device, but please bring any other personal First Aid or medications that you might need.

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

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Opt Outside Joshua Tree National Park Hike - California
Dec
14
10:00 AM10:00
Far West

Opt Outside Joshua Tree National Park Hike - California

Opt Outside Joshua Tree National Park Hike, California

December 14, 2024 — 10:00am-3:00pm PT
Last day to register: December 14, 2024

This beautiful loop hike sponsored by REI is taking place inside of Joshua Tree National Park. The rocky trail weaves through the ridges and washes west of the Black Rock Campground. You'll see lots of Joshua trees and great views of Mt. San Gorgonio and San Jacinto. Keep your eye out for wildlife like pinyon jays, quail, and jackrabbits.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Yucca Valley, California (Traditional homelands of the Maara'yam (Serrano), Nüwü (Chemehuevi), and Kawiya (Cahuilla); Aha Macave (Mohave) traditional use area)
Parking: Parking lot within short walking distance to the trailhead
Pets: While we love pets, we ask that you please leave furry friends at home for this event. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: December 14, 2024
Hike: 4.7 miles, 800 ft elevation gain
Cost: $0-$20 sliding scale + $30 day pass to Joshua Tree National Park. Tip: You can borrow a National Parks day pass from your local library!
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Sturdy boots with good grip, at least 2 liters of water, lunch, electrolytes, snacks, sun protection, and warm layers. Hiking poles are recommended but not necessary.

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Intro to Car Camping Workshop - California
Oct
12
10:00 AM10:00
Far West

Intro to Car Camping Workshop - California

Intro to Car camping workshop - california

October 12, 2024 — 10:00-10:30am PT

Join TVOP Volunteer Alex and REI Laguna Hills for an introductory course on car camping. You’ll learn the basics of vehicle-based camping with helpful tips for planning your first adventure, or leveling up your car camping game.

Whether you're traveling in a sedan, hatchback, van or truck -- vehicles can help provide safe, comfortable spaces to experience the outdoors. In this 30-minute seminar, you'll learn how to pack up and go in under 30 minutes, plan trips that set yourself (and your vehicle) up for success, and be introduced to a variety of tools, products, and resources to start adventuring in four wheels. Class will be led by instructors from The Venture Out Project and REI.

This event is for all ages and is open to the public. If you require a service dog to attend this event and have questions about access, please contact REI Laguna Hills.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Laguna Hills, CA
(Tongva (Gabrieleno) and Acjachemen (Juaneño) lands)
Pets: While we love dogs, we ask you please leave furry friends at home for this event. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: October 12, 2024
Cost: Free!
Bring: Snacks, water, your car camping questions.

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Queer Ecology Hike & Brunch - California
Oct
21
10:00 AM10:00
Far West

Queer Ecology Hike & Brunch - California

Queer Ecology Hike & Brunch with Jason "Journeyman" Wise - Los Angeles, California

October 21, 2023 — 10:00 - 12:00 pm PT
Rain date: November 4, 2023

Come join our growing SoCal queer community as we learn about the wonderfully *queer* ecology of Los Angeles's last coastal wetlands!

Join TVOP Volunteer Alex on a 2-mile walk through the Saltwater Marsh at the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve. This hike will be easygoing as we learn all about the local flora and fauna from LGBTQ+ activist and educator Jason (Journeyman) Wise and Samatha Mariscal from the Friends of Ballona Wetlands.

We'll start at 10am and offer an optional brunch after!

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

The Friends of Ballona Wetlands require everyone entering the ecological reserve to sign a waiver as well. Link Here.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Playa del Rey, CA
(Tongva lands)
Pets: While we love dogs, we ask you please leave furry friends at home for this event. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: October 21, 2023
Hike: ~2 miles, ~29 ft elevation gain
Cost: $0-$20 sliding scale + parking fee (see above)
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: water/electrolytes, hiking shoes, daypack, snacks, trekking poles, hat, sunscreen/sun protection

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

  • Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who have financial barriers. Paying a higher amount allows us to provide more opportunities to others. Paying a smaller amount is recommended for those who would not otherwise be able to afford the estimated value. Please choose an amount that you will be able to pay, but will not hinder your ability to afford food, housing, etc. By paying as much as you can, we are able to serve more of our community members.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Queer Family Surf Lessons - California
Oct
7
8:00 AM08:00
Far West

Queer Family Surf Lessons - California

Queer Family Surf Lessons with Un Mar De Colores - San Diego, California

October 7, 2023 — 8:00 - 11:00 am PT
Rain date: October 21, 2023

Come learn to surf in one of Southern California's most iconic, beginner-friendly surf locations - run by TVOP Volunteer Alex, in collaboration with the local nonprofit, Un Mar de Colores!

Located off Highway 1 in the coastal city of Cardiff, this beach is located at the northern end of San Diego County. We'll start gathering at 8:00 am to get settled and change into wetsuits, then at 8:30 am begin our welcome circle, reviewing beach safety and basics of surfing. From there, we'll hop in the water, and kids and their families will be paired up with instructors from Un Mar de Colores.

While we do require folks to know how to swim, no experience with surfing is needed to join. This is meant to be a fun, safe way for queer families to explore a new activity outside together.

If you make the drive and want to explore the city after our event, your TVOP volunteer can share queer-owned shops, local beaches, and where to explore some of San Diego's world-renowned coastlines.

If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

This state beach provides paid day-use parking at a $15 rate. Parking is free with a pre-paid California State Parks pass. There are state programs for 4th graders and their families to apply for passes, and some libraries allow you to loan out a park pass. To learn more, visit: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1049

GENERAL INFO

Location: Cardiff area, CA
(Kumeyaay lands)
Pets: While we love dogs, we ask you please leave furry friends at home for this event. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: October 7, 2023
Cost: $0 - We have worked with our friends at Un Mar de Colores to make this event free.
Bring: water/electrolytes, snacks, swimsuits, wetsuit, towel, sunscreen

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Trans & Nonbinary Beach & Brunch Hike - California
Jul
8
8:30 AM08:30
Far West

Trans & Nonbinary Beach & Brunch Hike - California

Trans & Nonbinary Beach & Brunch Hike - California

July 8, 2023 — 8:30-11:45am PT
Rain date: July 15, 2023

Come hike to one of the most stunning 360 vistas in Southern California. Located off Highway 133 in the coastal city of Laguna Beach, this hike is right in the middle of Los Angeles and San Diego Counties. We'll start early at 9 am to beat the heat and have optional brunch after.

If you make the drive and want to explore the city after our event further, your TVOP volunteer can share queer-owned shops, local beaches, and where to explore some of Laguna's world-renowned tide pools.

While the entirety of this hike is not wheelchair accessible, the summit can be driven to and is hard-packed clay. Paved walkways, handicapped parking, and bathrooms are located at the summit. If you'd like to enjoy the views at the top and come to brunch after to meet folks, please signup! We would love to have you as part of our growing volunteer-led SoCal TVOP community.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
Please note: there is a $4 trailhead parking fee upon arrival for this event.
Additionally, if you require an emotional support/service dog to attend, please let us know and we collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

GENERAL INFO

Location: Laguna Beach area, CA
(Tongva & Acjachemen lands)
Pets: While we love dogs, we ask you please leave furry friends at home for this event (unless they’re your emotional support/service animal - see above). Tell them we said hi!
Meet: July 8, 2023
Hike: 2.4 miles, 890 ft elevation gain
Cost: $4 trailhead parking fee + $0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Snacks, water (at least 1 liter, electrolytes recommended), bug spray, sunscreen, weather appropriate clothing, trekking poles if desired

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

  • Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who have financial barriers. Paying a higher amount allows us to provide more opportunities to others. Paying a smaller amount is recommended for those who would not otherwise be able to afford the estimated value. Please choose an amount that you will be able to pay, but will not hinder your ability to afford food, housing, etc. By paying as much as you can, we are able to serve more of our community members.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →