Queer Birding Hike - Tennessee
August 10, 2025 — 6:30 am - 12:30 pm ET
Last day to register: August 8, 2025
Led by TVOP Volunteer Aubrey and Ornithologist Luke (Birdman) Coe-Starr, join us for a hike just outside of Knoxville exploring several bird habitats. Coe-Starr has traveled all over the world analyzing avian behavioral ecology, but calls Oak Ridge home. The duration of the hike, between 3-6 miles, will be determined by the group! The park will have water, forest, and open greenway areas with tons of opportunities to spot various species of birds. Bring your listening ears and binoculars if you have them!
We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community and is open to ages 14 and up. 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: Oak Ridge area, TN (Shawandasse Tula (Shawandaki/Shawnee) lands)
Parking: Large gravel parking lot at the entrance to the hike.
Pets: While we love pets, we ask that furry friends who are not service animals stay at home for this adventure. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: August 10, 2025
Hike: 3-6miles, up to 1,000ft elevation gain depending on group desires
Cost: This event is completely free to access! We welcome donations of any amount, which help us continue to provide these programs. We appreciate your support and your contribution!
Bring: Water, trekking poles if one has joint issues, snacks, binoculars if one has any, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, bug repellent, hat, and/or sunglasses.
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.
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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.