This is open to Queer-identifying participants ages 18-30 and who are United States Citizens (travel expenses outside of the U.S. will not be covered). No prior outdoor experience is necessary.
1. Are looking to build queer community
2. Who wouldn't otherwise have the financial means to attend
3. Those with multiple marginalized identities
What’s Covered?
Transportation costs will be covered (flights up to $600) and all food, gear and equipment (backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tents, stoves, rain gear, etc.) needed will be provided as a rental AT NO COST to participants. We’re also offering up to $500 in income reimbursement if you will be taking time away from work for this trip. If you think this program is for you, it is, regardless of what you have or don't have to bring.
Snapshot:
We're offering 6 fully scholarshipped spots to join on our Queer Outdoor Expedition this year! This trip will take you on an unforgettable journey through the lands of the Eastern Mono/Monache and Numu (Northern Paiute) tribes which is currently called the Inyo National Forest. Join a group of LGBTQIA+ folks to learn skills for leadership, backpacking, and outdoor living in a queer-positive space. Information:
Trip dates: Aug 10th-18th. August 10th and 18th will be travel days
Duration: days in the field - 6 days / 5 nights, 1 day beforehand will be spent in Mammoth Lakes packing.
Route length: Average of 5 miles per day, 15-25 miles total
Average pack weight: 40-60 pounds
Group size: 6 individuals, 2 instructors
Elevation range: 5,500–12,000 feet
Explore the natural landscapes of the Eastern Sierra
Spend 2 days giving back with a stewardship project with Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps
Outcomes: outdoor skill development, queer community building, hazard evaluation, judgment and decision-making, introduction to stewardship, map reading, expedition planning
Location: Mammoth Lakes/Bishop, California - Eastern Mono/Monache and Numu (Northern Paiute) - (Inyo National Forest)
Overview
Our participants will meet and have an introduction and orientation session with our trip leaders before embarking on a 6-day immersive backpacking trip. This trip will be based in the Sierras, Eastern Mono/Monache and Numu (Northern Paiute) - (Inyo National Forest). During the trip, you will learn local natural history, resiliency, and community building.
Each day will include hiking, and some days will involve project work with the Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps, such as trail maintenance or habitat restoration. Safety briefings and PPE will be available as well as instruction in the skills necessary to successfully complete the day’s task. No prior experience is expected! You should expect some challenging, strenuous hiking days but we will all be tackling these challenges together.
There will be curriculum focused on breaking down queer specific boundaries to access opportunities in the outdoors. Members will be encouraged to explore their own identities in relation to the land and in relation to each other; discovering and celebrating new ways to belong in these spaces.
