Out in the Wild: One Man’s Journey from Closet to Summit

Join us for an inspiring presentation with Mike Boisvert, founder of GayOutdoors and a lifelong adventurer, as he shares his powerful story of self-discovery and community while hiking the Appalachian Trail as a closeted gay man in 1979.

From his early days with the Chiltern Mountain Club to launching GayOutdoors—a community that’s thrived for over 25 years—Mike Boisvert will take us through the evolving landscape of the outdoor world and its growing acceptance of LGBTQ individuals.

Hear about:

Hiking the Appalachian Trail while carrying more than just a backpack

The power of finding chosen family through outdoor clubs

How LGBTQ visibility in nature has grown from silent footsteps to proud voices

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a member of the LGBTQ community, or simply someone who believes in the power of authenticity, you’ll leave uplifted and inspired.

Date: June 28th

Time: 3PM

Location: REI-Bedford

Let’s celebrate courage, community, and the freedom to be out—in every sense of the word.