Openness in the Outdoors

“Walking down the river with my Queer lover and two other trans guys… Powerful. Validating. Normal. I had never met another trans man before. This is all very new to me. The learning was potent and powerful and people’s stories were so moving. So grateful.” -Participant, Queer River Rafting w/ Holiday River Expeditions

Venture Out

Combining passion for the great outdoors with their mission to provide a safe and fun space for queer, trans and LQBTQ+ people to experience the natural world, The Venture Out Project (TVOP) team is working to create an inclusive and welcoming community to foster leadership skills and confidence through outdoor activities. By hosting a variety of guided adventures for the queer and transgender community, they seek to reach individuals who range widely in their interests and skill levels. No matter where the trip may take them, from running rapids on the Colorado River to forest bathing in the Maine woods, the team works hard to foster a supportive environment for those who might not otherwise feel like they have a place in the outdoors.

Starting as an organization in 2015, TVOP has led over 200 day and overnight trips and served over 1500 participants through guided outdoor adventures, workshops and community events. Their team, consisting of staff, instructors and volunteers, work each year to support their values and pillars of focus, including environmental stewardship, social justice, diversity and inclusion, challenge as a choice and community.

 "I think TVOP is awesome. You take great care of folks, feed them well, allow them space and make them feel welcome. I thank you for testing me to my limits and helping me when I couldn't do it alone."   - A.P

In addition to leading outdoor adventures and activities, TVOP offers Trans Inclusion educational workshops(Opens in a new window). These services are a resource that help to enhance existing programming in schools, universities, camps and outdoor brands alike, with the goal of making these settings more inclusive and affirming of trans and non-binary individuals. Moreover, outdoor brands are utilizing these workshops to create more equitability within their internal work environments and merchandise.

Get Involved with Upcoming Events

TVOP’s event schedule includes a variety of activities, including backpacking, canoeing, rafting, homesteading & skill-building workshops, LGBTQ+ family campouts, forest bathing, and more!. These adventures are led by trained instructors, and prioritize safety, inclusivity and a sense of community above all. Whether you are attending an event as a solo adventurer or with a group, there is something for everyone. All adventures are priced on a sliding scale, so you can find the best investment for you. You can learn more about what to expect on a TVOP adventure here!(Opens in a new window)

Support and Follow Along Today

Interested in participating in an event(Opens in a new window)? Want to make a donation(Opens in a new window)? Curious to learn more about what it takes to become a volunteer(Opens in a new window) or an instructor(Opens in a new window)? The Venture Out Project website(Opens in a new window) has all the resources for you! You can also follow along on Instagram(Opens in a new window) and Facebook(Opens in a new window) to stay up to date on upcoming events and more information!

“The instructors were so kind, welcoming, knowledgeable, and really created an open space for everyone to feel at ease & connect with each other.” - Queer Backpacking Participant