“I really appreciate Spotlights like this for people that have to fight to get a seat at the table, this gives us our own entire table.”

“These hikes can bring up tears for some of our hikers because being with community and feeling seen is something we all are looking for in this life.”

“I went out looking to re-experience a connection to nature that I used to experience before puberty - to find that young kid and unfettered joy at where I could go, what I could do, and what it was to be one small piece of this planet.”

“The outdoors has changed my life. It has given me hope, provided me with an opportunity to feel alive, and given me a sense of comfort. But it’s not always rainbows and sunshine outside. The obstacles I have to overcome help prepare me for the emotional obstacles I face on a daily basis.”

“I don’t just want queer representation in the industry, I want a thriving queer-dominant sector. No more waiting for the white cishet hegemony to open doors for us, it's time to pick the locks.”

“The moment the sun rose above the clouds was almost a spiritual experience - my wife and I both felt emotional as we thought how lucky we were to be in this place at this time, able to witness such a beautiful gift from Mother Earth.”

“Trans and gender-nonconforming people need to feel comfortable in every space if we are going to make outdoor access available for everyone.”

“...social media and the mainstream push this narrative that fancy gear and hiking boots are required...I think my grandpa hitting the trails with his Air Jordans is a testament that you don’t need the latest and greatest to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.”

“I would love to see more People of Color on the trails. It’s one thing to be a woman but to be a Black Gay woman is a triple threat. Intersectionality is important...understanding the inequalities when it comes to gear, wealth, exposure and privilege is pivotal to making a difference.”

“I think it’s really important for the LGBT+ community to be intentional about including BIPOC in their spaces and initiatives. I’ve noticed this more in recent years and I’m happy to see it happening but there is still work to do to make the LGBT+ community more inclusive as well.”