When: June 14, 2025 @ 12:00 am
Come be “out in the outdoors”!
Calling WNC’s LGBTQIA+ community! Let’s gather to share the company of nature and our fellow community members. Every other month, we come together to create a welcoming and inclusive outdoor space as we wander in the woods, connecting to each other and the natural world around us. These meetings are social gatherings with naturalist twists rather than structured guided hikes; our main goal is to enjoy our time together in the beautiful outdoors, including sharing a provided snack together! In between our chatting and laughter, we take the time to notice, appreciate, and learn about the creatures that call this place home, from the tiny beetles to the mighty trees. This safe space is open to anyone who seeks community and honors the spirit of respect and kindness that this club is built on- friends, family, and allies are welcome!
This month, we will be Out near Alarka to explore a rare, high-elevation bog! This trail meanders along the perimeter of a mountain bog, and though we will not be venturing into this incredible area, there will be plenty to look at and learn about along the way. We may be treated to uncommon birds, wildflowers, and even salamanders if we look hard enough! Loaner binoculars will be available for those who are particularly interested in the birds that live at high elevations.
Fill out the form at the bottom of the page to register. The meeting location is between Bryson City and Franklin, about a 40 minute drive from each. Exact meeting location and time will be emailed to registered attendees in the days leading up to the event. Total distance covered during this event will be about 1 mile along easy to moderate trails with little to no elevation gain. We will amble slowly and stop often to discuss the critters we hear and see, as well as find a place to stop and share our seasonal snack. Please bring water, a layer, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars if you have them, and anything else you’ll need to stay comfortable outside during this event.
Email Skye at [email protected] with any questions. Please leave pets at home. This event is weather-dependent.
2025 Schedule
Winter Foraging Walk: Saturday, February 8th in Franklin
Birding Walk: Saturday, April 12th in Franklin
Bog Walk: Saturday, June 14th, near Alarka
Summer Picnic and Swimming: Saturday, August 23rd in Lake Santeelah
Autumn Leaf Garland Workshop: Saturday, October 18th near Franklin
Waterfall Hike and Native Seed Starting: Saturday, December 6th in Bryson City
Meet your leaders
As Mainspring’s Conservation Outreach Director, Skye (she/her) inspires people to connect with their local landscape and value the conservation efforts that protect it. Integrating her experience in wildlife research with her excitement about the natural world, she strives to make science fun and accessible.
Gillian (she/her) is a queer conservation practitioner who strives to build community by connecting with others in nature and working to ensure that public lands are a welcome and safe space for all.
Please register by midnight on Thursday, June 12th to ensure you receive meeting details in time. Thank you!
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