Queer Plus-Size Backpacking: PNW
August 19-22, 2023
We're thrilled to once again partner with Jenny Bruso and Unlikely Hikers to bring you another round of Queer Plus-Size backpacking — this time, in the PNW! During this adventure, created for our queer community members who wear sizes 2XL and up, we’re making intentional space to come as who we are right now — not who we were in the past, or who we hope to be in the future. The body you are in in this moment is the right one for this adventure.
To maintain this vibe, we ask that you refrain from putting a moral value on bodies, food and movement – even your own. No weight loss talk, no ‘good’ bodies or ‘bad’ bodies, no "in shape" or "out of shape" - just fun in the sun (and shade!) on this wilderness trek.
We know this trip is needed by so many people. While we wish we had room for everyone interested, we realize that we simply do not. Please fill out the application below to be considered for this trip, and thank you for your understanding.
Heads up! We are going to use the word fat a lot, and in its most literal sense - with no moral context and also in a reclamatory way. For completely understandable reasons, this isn't everyone's favorite word. Whatever words you use to refer to your body are your business and should be respected, but we want to be transparent around the language we’ll use on this stellar adventure.
This is an intentional space for queer, plus-size people size 2XL and up. If this is not your lived experience, please consider another one of TVOPs adventures - there are many to choose from! All genders are welcome and encouraged to apply. We are able to offer this backpacking adventure at a subsidized cost because of the generous support we receive from Eddie Bauer.
Activity Level 1: - Slow pace~ 1 mile per hour; 2-3 breaks per hour or as needed; options to stay in camp and rest while others do an optional activity; flat to rolling hills; stable footing. Ability to carry daypacks up to 15lbs and overnight backpacks up to 35lbs for up to 4 hours at a time.
GENERAL INFO
Location: Mt. Hood National Forest
(Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla lands)
Start Date: August 19, 2023
End Date: August 22, 2023
Cost: $250 - $750 sliding scale
Estimated value: $500
To find out where you fall best in our sliding scale, see the “Why does this trip cost money?” dropdown below.
Includes: Minimal shuttling to trailhead, Food & gear: backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, stoves, bowls, utensils
Doesn't Include: Carpool to trip location, personal items, clothing, boots, toiletries, flights
COVID SAFETY
- Proof of vaccination
- Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group
Applications are open until March 14th, 2023
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Our sliding scale is meant to make our trips and events more accessible for those who experience financial barriers, are looking for reparations pricing, and/or have high travel expenses. 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.
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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.
