New mapping tool connects LGBTQ outdoor enthusiasts with recreation groups

Just in time for Pride, two organisations are making it easier for LGBTQ outdoor enthusiasts to connect with each other and the great outdoors with a community-generated map.

Pride Outside and The Wilderness Society, both based in Washington DC, are connecting LGBTQ-friendly outdoor groups with each other and with individuals who are keen to connect with like-minded people. Leading the project is Hannah Malvin, the founder of Pride Outside and The Wilderness Society’s partnerships representative.

“Pride Outside works to connect the LGBTQ community around the outdoors. I’m often asked where people can find LGBTQ outdoor groups near them and I kept having to say ‘I don’t know.’ Since there’s no existing resource for that, we set out to make one,” Malvin told Lonely Planet.

Pride Outside worked with The Wilderness Society’s mapping team to set up an interactive tool where outdoor groups can input their information, such as their location and upcoming events. The map went live last week and, so far, it lists 49 outdoor groups across the US, while steadily building its international listings with groups in Canada, the Netherlands and Australia. Malvin said the team is now looking forward to building the map into a comprehensive resource for LGBTG-friendly outdoor events and group meet-ups worldwide.

“We hope it will help LGBTQ individuals find fun outdoor opportunities nearby and that it will also help facilitate community outreach for the outdoor industry and conservation community to connect more with local LGBTQ people to boost representation and inclusion outside.”

“It’s been exciting to see all the opportunities for LGBTQ people to connect around the outdoors,” she added. “We look forward to building it out to help support LGBTQ folks coming together enjoying hiking, climbing, biking, swimming, frisbee, softball, skiing, boating, and more all around the world.”

Keen to connect with your fellow outdoor enthusiasts or even put your own LGBTQ group on the map? You can access it here. You can search by address, or city and adjust the result by distance.