Filtering by: Great Lakes
Pride Month Day Hike - Michigan
Jun
8
3:30 PM15:30

Pride Month Day Hike - Michigan

Pride Month Day Hike - Michigan

June 8, 2024 — 3:30 - 5:30 pm ET
Rain date: June 22, 2024
Last day to register: June 5, 2024

Come celebrate Pride Month by getting outside together! Join TVOP volunteer Krista for a scenic hike that offers views of several lakes, old growth forests, and lush praries. This trail is excellent for bird watching as well, so feel free to bring your binoculars!

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Lake Ann area, MI
(Odawa lands)
Parking: Circular gravel parking lot with ample space. No pit toilet on site, but there is one across the street at the state campground.
Pets: Dogs are welcome to join on this adventure!
Meet: June 8, 2024
Hike: 3.2 mi, 216 ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Bring water, any snacks, and good shoes! There's the potential for bugs so bring some bug spray if desired.

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in an event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

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Queer Day Hike With Adventure Leadership + Spectrum Center - Michigan
Jun
15
9:30 AM09:30

Queer Day Hike With Adventure Leadership + Spectrum Center - Michigan

Queer Day Hike With Adventure Leadership + Spectrum Center - Michigan

June 15, 2024 — 9:30 - 11:30 pm ET
Rain date: June 22, 2024
Last day to register: June 12, 2024

Join TVOP Volunteer Krista along with the Adventure Leadership Program and The Spectrum Center for an inclusive queer day hike!

This trail offers a unique opportunity to observe the natural evolution following a significant historical shift—from the era of farming and gravel operations that once shaped this land until the 1940s. The expansive Dix Pond, formerly a gravel pit dredged below the water table, stands as a testament to the past. Nearby, remnants of old upland pastures and evolving woodlots, now flourishing with mature trees, bear witness to this transformative journey.

Trail chairs and other mobility aids are available for free use along this groomed, packed gravel trail.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Dixboro area, MI
(Anishinabek lands)
Parking: Ample paved parking, full service toilets at the visitor center.
Pets: Dogs are welcome to join on this adventure!
Meet: June 15, 2024
Hike: 2.2 mi, 0 ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Bring water, good shoes, and any snacks you may need during our trip. There are patches of sunny spots so make sure to bring a hat and sunblock.

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in an event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

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Queer Lakeshore Day Hike - Michigan
Apr
27
10:00 AM10:00

Queer Lakeshore Day Hike - Michigan

Queer Lakeshore Day Hike - Michigan

April 27, 2024 — 10:00 - 2:00 pm ET
Rain date: May 4, 2024
Last day to register: April 24, 2024

Join TVOP Krista on an amazing day hike in Michigan! An often overlooked gem, we'll follow a hiking trail that loops through a hilly and leafy ridge with beautiful views of both Lake Michigan and Big Glen Lake. With scenic overlooks and fun, but not challenging, terrain changes, this trail has so much to offer for new and experienced hikers alike. This trail tends to get busy in the summer, so this is an excellent time to experience one of the best trails in the region and have an intimate moment with nature before the crowds come.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Glen Arbor area, MI
(Odawa lands)
Parking: Gravel lot with pit toilet
Pets: While we love dogs, we ask you please leave furry friends at home for this event. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: April 27, 2024
Hike: 4.8 mi, 692ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale + National Parks Pass required for vehicle entry (parking free with NP Pass). Krista can carpool up to four additional persons, reach out to Krista to snag a spot!
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Bring water, good shoes, and a windproof layer for the higher elevation/more exposed sections of the trail.
We may grab lunch/snacks at the scenic overlook so feel free to bring something nice to eat while we enjoy the view!

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in an event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Queer Winter Day Hike - Michigan
Feb
6
1:00 PM13:00

Queer Winter Day Hike - Michigan

Queer Winter Day Hike - Minnesota

Febuary 6, 2024 — 1:00 - 4:00 pm ET
Rain date: Feb 20, 2024
Last day to register: Feb 3, 2024

Join TVOP Volunteer Krista (she/her) for this queer day hike in the Michigan woods! The trail crosses a variety of different terrains including plains, ridgeways, deciduous and coniferous forests. Once the site of a dam reservoir, the recently drained area now showcases new forest growth and the old bottomlands that had been covered by water for nearly 80 years. In the winter the river freezes in shallow sections, and the winter fauna come out more regularly. Expect to experience a variety of unique wintertime sights and sounds.

This will be a winter hike with no access to additional water so bring warm layers, snacks and plenty of water. Crampons may be recommended based on trail conditions closer to the date.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Mayfield, MI
(Odawa and Anishinabewaki lands)
Parking: Gravel lot with pit toilet, boot brush, wayfinding, and land info signage.
Pets: While we love dogs, we ask you please leave furry friends at home for this event. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: Febuary 6, 2024
Hike: 2.1 mi, 114ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Water, warm layers, crampons depending on conditions

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in an event.

  • Of course you can always hike for free on your own! What we are offering is not just a wilderness trip, but a chance to create community. On a TVOP trip, you will meet people with shared identities, have meaningful experiences and conversations in community, have someone else plan the logistics of your adventures, and have certified Wilderness First Aiders on hand should you ever need one. All of the money we collect goes towards operating costs for our programs.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
 OptOutside: Queer Forest Bathing - Michigan
Nov
18
10:00 AM10:00

OptOutside: Queer Forest Bathing - Michigan

Queer Forest Bathing - Michigan

November 18, 2023 — 10:00-12:00pm ET
Rain date: December 2, 2023
Last day to register: Nov 15, 2023

The holidays can be a very stressful time of year for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Take some time before then to re-center and decompress in community. Join us on a gentle forest bathing session where we'll take a pause from the everyday and reconnect with ourselves and our surroundings before the holiday season.

This event is supported by OptOutside. What is OptOutside, you ask? Every Nov 24, we #OptOutside with TVOP Partner REI and decide to spend time, not money. And we want everybody to be able to join us! In less than 60 seconds, you can help everyone living in America get closer to public parks and outdoor spaces. Support the Outdoors for All Act and then join us in the woods this holiday season!

Please note: Because the timing of this event overlaps with deer season in this area, although the event itself is hosted in an exclusion zone, participants should be aware that they may hear occasional gunshots while on trail.

This adventure is open to folks of all ages - we ask folks under the age of 18 to please register yourself and an adult to accompany you.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Traverse City area, MI
(Odawa lands)
Pets: We love pets, but unfortunately, furry friends will need to remain home for this adventure.
Meet: Nov 18, 2023
Hike: 2.1 mi, 124 ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Water, snacks, warm clothes (we wont be moving fast so layers are encouraged to be able to stay comfortable and engaged on the experience)

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

  • Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who have financial barriers. Paying a higher amount allows us to provide more opportunities to others. Paying a smaller amount is recommended for those who would not otherwise be able to afford the estimated value. Please choose an amount that you will be able to pay, but will not hinder your ability to afford food, housing, etc. By paying as much as you can, we are able to serve more of our community members.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Queer Disc Golfing - Michigan
Oct
8
10:00 AM10:00

Queer Disc Golfing - Michigan

Queer Disc Golfing - Michigan

October 8, 2023 — 10:00-3:00pm ET
Rain date: October 15, 2023

Are you a seasoned disc golfer? Or have you been interested, but not known where to start? Join TVOP Volunteer Kay and local queer semi-pro JP for a round to hone your game or develop new skills. No experience or discs needed! Free discs will be provided for attendees (to keep!) thanks to our friends at Prodigy Disc, and JP will be available to help give pointers. Come throw your cares away for a while!

This adventure is open to folks of all ages - we ask folks under the age of 18 to please register yourself and an adult to accompany you. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Lake Ann area, MI
(Odawa lands)
Pets: We love pets, but unfortunately, furry friends will need to remain home for this adventure.
Meet: October 8, 2023
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Water, snacks, good walking shoes

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

  • Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who have financial barriers. Paying a higher amount allows us to provide more opportunities to others. Paying a smaller amount is recommended for those who would not otherwise be able to afford the estimated value. Please choose an amount that you will be able to pay, but will not hinder your ability to afford food, housing, etc. By paying as much as you can, we are able to serve more of our community members.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Queer Day Hike - Michigan
Sep
9
10:00 AM10:00

Queer Day Hike - Michigan

Queer Day Hike - Michigan

September 9, 2023 — 10:00am - 2:00 pm ET
Rain date: Sept 23, 2023

Want to hike one of the best-kept secret trails in the Grand Traverse area? Join us to hike a trail just outside of Traverse City that boasts scenic lake views, multiple bridges over rivers, and some of the best bird watching in Northern Michigan. Truly a hidden gem, expect to have plenty of quiet time to experience this trail and the surrounding area.

This hike may have some muddy spots (weather dependent!) so be sure to bring appropriate footwear to cross these areas if they occur. We will be breaking at the halfway point for snacks/lunch so bring something to eat as well as plenty of water.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Lake Ann, MI
(Odawa Nation lands)
Pets: Furry friends are welcome to join us on this hike.
Meet: Sept 9, 2023
Hike: 4.2 miles, 285 ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale + money for ice cream (optional)
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Water, Snacks, Bug spray and/or sun protection, Additional layers, as needed, due to weather

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

Last day to register is September 6th!

  • Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who have financial barriers. Paying a higher amount allows us to provide more opportunities to others. Paying a smaller amount is recommended for those who would not otherwise be able to afford the estimated value. Please choose an amount that you will be able to pay, but will not hinder your ability to afford food, housing, etc. By paying as much as you can, we are able to serve more of our community members.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Queer Day Hike and Social - Michigan
Jul
22
1:00 PM13:00

Queer Day Hike and Social - Michigan

Queer Day Hike and Social - Michigan

July 22, 2023 — 1:00 - 3:00 pm ET
Rain date: July 29, 2023

Join The Venture Out Project’s volunteer Kay for a modest hike that has several small streams and a scenic view of Grand Traverse Bay, followed by an optional social at the local Earthen Ales. All folks who stay for the social will receive $2 off of any beer on tap and/or any non-alcoholic beverage.

While this hike is open to people of all ages, the following social is 21+. We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Traverse City area, MI
(Odawa lands)
Pets: Well-mannered dogs are welcome on this hike. Please remember to clean up after them!
Meet: July 22, 2023
Hike: 1.65 miles, 265 ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Snacks, water (at least 1 liter), bug spray, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and trekking poles if desired

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

  • Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who have financial barriers. Paying a higher amount allows us to provide more opportunities to others. Paying a smaller amount is recommended for those who would not otherwise be able to afford the estimated value. Please choose an amount that you will be able to pay, but will not hinder your ability to afford food, housing, etc. By paying as much as you can, we are able to serve more of our community members.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →
Queer Day Hike - Michigan
Jun
24
10:00 AM10:00

Queer Day Hike - Michigan

Queer Day Hike - Michigan

June 24, 2023 — 10:00-3:30pm ET
Rain date: July 8, 2023

Join TVOP Volunteer Kay (she/her) on a queer day hike for all ages near Mayfield, MI! This 5-mile loop is a well-maintained trail that meanders alongside a river. You're likely to spot deer, an abundance of birds, and other wildlife species. These trails are relatively flat, with only about 115ft of elevation gain, making it a great option for all age groups.

This adventure is open to folks of all ages - we ask folks under the age of 18 to please register yourself and an adult to accompany you.



GENERAL INFO

Location: Mayfield area, MI
(Odawa and Anishinabewaki lands)
Pets: Leashed dogs are welcome to join us on the trail - please remember to clean up after them!
Meet: June 24, 2023
Hike: 5 miles, 115 ft elevation gain
Cost:
$0-$20 sliding scale
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Bring: Water, snacks, jacket/outer layer for the plains area as it does get windy

COVID SAFETY

Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.

  • Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who have financial barriers. Paying a higher amount allows us to provide more opportunities to others. Paying a smaller amount is recommended for those who would not otherwise be able to afford the estimated value. Please choose an amount that you will be able to pay, but will not hinder your ability to afford food, housing, etc. By paying as much as you can, we are able to serve more of our community members.

    Our sliding scale recommendation:

    - Low: Yearly income $30,000 or under, struggles to meet basic needs

    - Mid (pays estimated value): Yearly income $40,000-$75,000, some expendable income

    - High: Yearly income $80,000-$100,000, comfortable, never struggle with basic needs

    Need more examples? We follow the Green Bottle principle. Click here to view and find out where you fall.

  • Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.

View Event →