Mission & Values
GayOutdoors builds community through outdoor adventure — creating welcoming spaces where gay and gay-friendly men can explore, connect, and care for the places we love.
Why We Exist
GayOutdoors exists to build meaningful, real-world community among gay men through shared outdoor adventure, stewardship, and leadership. We believe time outdoors is more powerful when it is shared — with care for one another, respect for the land, and a sense of purpose that extends beyond the trail. In an increasingly digital and disconnected world, we create space for face-to-face connection, personal growth, and belonging rooted in shared experience.
Our Mission
GayOutdoors brings gay and gay-friendly men together through inclusive outdoor adventures. We create opportunities to hike, paddle, camp, bike, backpack, and explore while fostering friendships, developing leaders, and promoting stewardship of the lands and waters we enjoy.
Our Vision
A world where gay and gay-friendly men feel safe, seen, and celebrated outside — where community is built on the trail, around the campfire, and in everyday acts of care for each other and the natural world.
Our Values
These values guide how we show up — for our members, our partners, and the places we explore.
Belonging
Everyone deserves to feel welcome outdoors. We create inclusive experiences where gay and gay-friendly men can be themselves and feel supported — whether it's your first group hike or your hundredth summit.
Adventure
We embrace curiosity and challenge. Our events range from easy walks to bigger goals, always with an emphasis on preparation, shared learning, and good judgment.
Community
We build real connections. We look out for one another, celebrate wins big and small, and believe that friendship is one of the best pieces of gear you can bring outside.
Pride
We honor LGBTQ+ identity in outdoor spaces. We show up with visibility and joy, and we work to ensure our community is safe and respected on and off the trail.
Stewardship
We take care of the places that take care of us. Stewardship means traveling lightly, learning local regulations, practicing Leave No Trace, and supporting conservation through volunteering, education, and partnerships.
- We follow Leave No Trace principles and model good trail etiquette.
- We respect wildlife, habitats, and seasonal closures.
- We pack out what we pack in — and pick up what we didn't bring.
- We support trail organizations, land trusts, and community clean-ups.
Safety & Responsibility
We prioritize safety through clear event expectations, weather-aware planning, and a culture where it's always okay to speak up, turn around, or adjust plans. We encourage skill-building and preparedness at every level.
Respect
We treat people, communities, and public lands with respect. We listen, learn, and hold ourselves accountable to a supportive, harassment-free community.
Volunteer Spirit
GayOutdoors is powered by members who host events, welcome newcomers, build chapters, and lend a hand. We value service and recognize the time and energy people contribute.
What This Looks Like Outdoors
Inclusive by Design
Clear event descriptions, supportive hosts, and a “no one left behind” mindset help members feel comfortable joining in — especially those new to group outings.
Stewardship in Action
From choosing durable surfaces to respecting quiet zones and trail work areas, we aim to reduce our impact. We encourage members to give back through volunteer days and conservation partnerships.
Join the Adventure. Give Back. Belong.
Whether you're looking for your first hike, a new circle of friends, or a way to support the outdoors, there's a place for you here.