We’re excited to take a group of queer folks hiking in western Maine for a 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip. This trip is for people who are new to backpacking or want to develop their backpacking skills in a queer-centered environment. Experienced trip leaders will instruct participants in the basics of navigation, setting up camp, and other backcountry skills. We’ll hike, camp, and build community in the woods!

Participants should be capable of hiking 3-6 hours each day (up to 4 miles) with as much as 1500 feet of elevation gain and loss. Participants will be carrying their own backpacks weighing 30-35 pounds and will be sleeping in tents at rustic backcountry campsites. Reach out to us with any questions or concerns about if this trip is right for you!

TRIP ITNERARY

Day 1: Meet up with the group in the morning at Kindling Collective in Portland. Review personal gear, distribute group gear, and carpool to Western Maine. Reach trailhead, eat lunch, and hike 1-2 miles to our campsite. Set up camp and then cook dinner in small groups. Sleep in tents next to a stream.

Day 2: Wake up, eat breakfast as a group, pack up gear, and head off hiking on the trail. Snacks and lunch on trail. Hike 3-4 miles, set up camp, cook in small groups, eat dinner and sleep in tents.

Day 3: Wake up and cook breakfast. Optional day hike up to Ames Mountain summit; return to campsite and collect gear and eat lunch. Hike out as a group. Carpool back to Kindling Collective. Wrap up and farewell by 6:30pm.

Experience required: None