In the Hudson Valley and beyond, the natural resources available allow people to boost their moods, unplug from the hustle and bustle, and, most importantly, foster connections with the land and each other. Getting out in green spaces and tending to the land can deepen that connection for communities of all kinds.
During Pride Month and beyond, there are ideal moments to recognize the organizations and groups making that happen for the Hudson Valley’s LGBTQ+ community. As one group founder put it, the outdoors truly are for everyone.
In keeping with that philosophy, here are five outdoor LGBTQ+ groups working to make the outdoors inviting to all.
Big Gay Hudson Valley
Active since 2008
As one of the region’s premiere LGBTQ+ organizations, Big Gay Hudson Valley has been hosting a range of community-building events since 2008. They try to break the mold with each new program they put on. For laughs, there’s the Gay Gasp, their queer comedy showcase. It enlists local stand-ups for one jovial night. For whole-fam fun, there’s Out On The Farm, their queer family-friendly fall festival. It entertains all ages with the usual fall trappings like apple cider drinks and donuts, pumpkins, hayrides, and live performances.
And their annual Pride in The Sky event — the first pride celebration on Poughkeepsie’s Walkway Over the Hudson — ushers in the season with a lively display of lights, lavish outfits, and flags that stretches into the night.
“Nature is the great equalizer. When we are one with the elements, we’re all the same,” says Stephan Hengst, founder and executive director of Big Gay Hudson Valley. “I always tell people that if they want to make friends, they should go to events that they love and spend time meeting people at those events. It’s at this point that you know you have at least one thing in common with those around you, and it’s a great opportunity to build community with those around you”
Hudson Valley Queer Rockhoppers
Active since 2021
After forming during the height of the pandemic, the Hudson Valley Queer Rockhoppers have remained an active part of the queer and outdoor enthusiast communities in the area. Group founder and organizer Alex Rosen has created an inviting space for people of all experience levels. They’ve traversed much of the region, exploring essential spots like the rocky formations of Sloan Gorge in Saugerties, sometimes with some furry companions in tow.
“Living in a cisgender heterosexual world, the group gives people an opportunity to be in a queer space together and feel validated,” Rosen has told Viewfinder. “There is an ease about it and being together sheds that tension around difficult things in our lives. Many of our members need support, distraction, and connection. Whether they were intentionally looking for those things or not, they end up finding [them].”
Queer Outdoor Adventures
Active since 2024
Queer Outdoor Adventures is a relatively new group in the area, starting during Pride Month 2024. But since then, they’ve quickly managed to gain attention thanks to the array of the activities (usually two each month) they’ve put on so far. Community-focused and sober-friendly events are all on the table. Hikes, picnics, beach visits, and stargazing are just a taste of what participants can expect.
“We make it a priority to create experiences that are enjoyable and welcoming for all age groups,” Alyx Arslanian, co-founder and event coordinator of Queer Outdoor Adventures, says. “We’ve had folks tell us they’ve never been to a queer event where people from so many different backgrounds come together to experience joy and connection. Depending on the event, you might see anyone from families with young kids to older adults.”
Arslanian and co-founder and fellow coordinator Miyagi Scott have received a ton of gratitude from attendees in their first year. Their emphasis on accessibility is definitely helping them on that front.
“The outdoors is for everyone! There’s always room to explore what feels right for each individual. You don’t need to be an avid hiker or an experienced mountain climber to enjoy a scenic walk — and the Hudson Valley is the perfect place for it,” Arslanian says. “We want to make it easier for folks to explore all kinds of outdoor activities in a safe and inclusive environment and, most importantly, to find community and joy in the process.”
Dyke Hikes
Active since 2009
Since 2009, Dyke Hikes has been diligently hosting various outdoor meetups aimed at lesbian and queer women in New York and New Jersey. Now 1,800 members strong, their weekly events cover all the major activities like hiking, kayaking, skiing, and biking. And with events that span New York, New Jersey, and parts of Pennsylvania, there’s plenty of terrain to cover.
OUTWalking [a program of the LOFT LGBTQ+ Community Center]
Active since 2013
Based out of the Loft LGBTQ+ Community Center in White Plains, OUTWalking is a great hiking group for those looking to explore Westchester County. They’ve visited more than 30 parks since they hit the scene more than a decade ago. Their monthly events are geared towards people of all experience levels looking for new experiences, connections, and greater exposure to green spaces.
“Hiking is a laid-back and non-threatening way to meet people in the local community. We’re all there to get outside and experience nature, which can make it less intimidating to meet new people,” says Joe Nappi, the group’s facilitator. “It’s wonderful to be able to connect with local queer people from all walks of life and get people out to experience the beauty of Westchester County and the Hudson Valley.”
