LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast - Season 3, Episode 4: Adventure Awaits: Hear From Our 2025 Trip Leaders!

Release Date: March 10, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast, hosts Patrick and Oded Wilson dive deep into the exciting lineup of adventure trips planned for 2025. This episode spotlights the passionate individuals leading each trip, providing listeners with comprehensive insights into what each adventure entails. From the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon to the serene waters of Broken Bow, this episode is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts seeking inclusive and diverse experiences.

1. Grand Canyon Adventure with Sam Troy and Oded Wilson

Trip Overview: Sam Troy and Oded Wilson take center stage as they introduce the Grand Canyon adventure scheduled from April 21st to April 28th, 2025. This trip is meticulously planned to cater to various fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can partake and enjoy the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Sam Troy’s Journey: Sam, originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, shares her profound connection with the Grand Canyon, having spent two and a half years living and working there. Her role with Zanterra involved training tour guides and bus drivers, which ignited her passion for outdoor adventures.

Sam Troy [04:35]: "There are 11 indigenous tribes that have partnerships with Grand Canyon National Park. Some of those tribes have their origin stories from the canyon itself."

Trip Highlights:

• Hiking Options: The trip offers a variety of hikes, including the Bright Angel Trail for those seeking an intense adventure and paved rim trails for leisurely strolls. Sam emphasizes the diversity of views with each visit to the canyon.

  Sam Troy [06:19]: "Every single time that you see the Grand Canyon, it's a different view and such."

• Cultural Significance: Beyond its natural beauty, the Grand Canyon holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for numerous indigenous communities. Sam plans to share stories about Fred Harvey and the Harvey Girls, enriching the experience with historical narratives.

• Preparation Tips: Emphasis on physical preparation, acclimatization to the 7,000ft elevation, and essential gear like adequate water supply and sturdy footwear.

  Sam Troy [10:34]: "Physically, really? Just getting out and hiking. If you can do hikes with elevation, that's great because I have these different hikes planned."

Inclusivity and Accessibility: Sam and Oded ensure that the trip accommodates all participants, whether they prefer strenuous hikes or simply wish to soak in the canyon's beauty from the rim.

2. Broken Bow Fly Fishing with Josh McNabb

Trip Overview: Josh McNabb leads the Broken Bow Fly Fishing trip set for May 16th, 2025. This adventure is designed to introduce participants to the art of fly fishing while exploring the pristine waters of Broken Bow.

Josh McNabb’s Story: Josh, hailing from Paris, Texas, shares his origins in fly fishing, sparked by a memorable 15th birthday experience. His mentorship under Old Man Sam at the local fly shop has deeply influenced his passion for the sport.

Josh McNabb [17:54]: "I'm excited to share that."

Trip Highlights:

• Fly Fishing Lessons: Josh will conduct introductory lessons for beginners, covering basic casting techniques and ensuring that even those without prior experience feel comfortable on the water.

  Josh McNabb [23:05]: "We're planning on doing a little lesson before we head up."

• Inclusive Environment: Emphasizing that all levels of experience are welcome, Josh encourages participants to try fly fishing regardless of their background or skill level.

  Josh McNabb [26:07]: "You can just, you know, give it a shot, give it a try. Who knows, you may end up coming up here to Colorado and going with me more."

• Local Expertise: Leveraging his extensive knowledge of the local rivers, Josh promises a secluded and immersive fishing experience away from the typical tourist spots.

Accessibility for Beginners: Josh reassures novices that the trip accommodates all skill levels, providing the necessary support and equipment guidance.

Josh McNabb [24:18]: "But once we get on the water, I'll be able to help everyone."

3. Alaska Adventure Trip with Patrick and Oded Wilson

Current Status: The highly anticipated Alaska Adventure Trip is currently full, but listeners can join the waitlist to secure a spot should availability open up.

Trip Highlights:

• Packrafting and Hiking: Partnering with the Alaska Packrafting School, the trip offers a blend of packrafting—lightweight, inflatable kayaks—and guided hikes, ensuring safety and enjoyment for all participants.

• Rustic Accommodations: Staying in Manitoba Yurts, participants will experience a blend of rustic charm and comfort, including cabins with kitchens yet no running water or electricity.

• Scenic Beauty and Wildlife: From glacier explorations to serene river rides, the Alaska trip promises unparalleled natural beauty and opportunities to reconnect with nature.

Patrick [33:33]: "We're going to do training as well before jumping out. So we'll do a morning on a beautiful lake."

Preparation and Safety: Comprehensive training sessions are planned to educate participants on packrafting techniques and safety measures, ensuring a secure and enjoyable adventure.

Josh McNabb [23:05]: "We're planning on doing a little lesson before we head up."

4. Glacier National Park Adventure with Brad Ryan and Cherie Ballinger

Trip Overview: Scheduled from August 21st to August 25th, 2025, this Glacier National Park trip is co-led by Brad Ryan and Cherie Ballinger. Participants will explore the park's stunning landscapes through hiking, wildlife viewing, and engaging educational sessions.

Brad Ryan’s Connection: Brad shares his lifelong love for national parks, emphasizing his first visit to Great Smoky Mountains with his grandmother and his extensive experience hiking the Appalachian Trail.

Brad Ryan [46:11]: "I've been an outdoorsman for most of my adult life, but I've always been a nature boy."

Trip Highlights:

• Diverse Activities: From cave hikes and waterfall trails to an 8-mile section of the Appalachian Trail leading to Kuohi (the highest point in the park), the trip caters to varied interests and fitness levels.

  Brad Ryan [48:28]: "The biodiversity is incredible."

• Wildlife Safaris: Participants can expect abundant wildlife sightings, including black bears and reintroduced elk, with guided safety protocols in place.

  Brad Ryan [47:44]: "I've seen up to 20 plus bears in a single day there."

• Exclusive Biking Sessions: On Wednesdays, the park's Cades Cove loop is closed to cars, providing a tranquil environment for biking and enhanced wildlife viewing.

  Brad Ryan [56:03]: "We'll have the whole day to ourselves. No cars."

Educational Experience: Partnering with the Glacier Institute, the trip includes educational hikes led by experts, offering in-depth knowledge about the park's geology, flora, and fauna.

Patrick [39:17]: "They're going to be helping us with leading hikes, animal wildlife, they're going to be teaching us about that."

5. Great Smoky Mountains Adventure with Brad Ryan

Trip Overview: The Great Smoky Mountains trip, led by Brad Ryan, offers a blend of hiking, biking, rafting, and zip-lining, set against the backdrop of one of the most biodiverse national parks in the U.S.

Brad Ryan’s Perspective: Drawing from his childhood memories and extensive hiking experience, Brad highlights the park's accessibility and rich biodiversity as key attractions.

Brad Ryan [47:44]: "The biodiversity is incredible. The particular part of the park that we're going to be staying at is Cades Cove."

Trip Highlights:

• Hiking Adventures: Options range from the scenic Trail of Time to the challenging Alum Cave Trail, catering to different fitness levels and hiking preferences.

• Wildlife and Nature Education: Emphasis on responsible wildlife viewing and environmental education to foster a deeper connection with nature.

  Brad Ryan [50:01]: "We will take proper precautions for food storage."

• Outdoor Activities: Beyond hiking, participants can enjoy horseback riding, whitewater rafting, zip-lining, and a ranger-guided hayride, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience.

Brad Ryan [55:18]: "We're going to do a full day of whitewater rafting and zip lining."

Safety and Comfort: Brad underscores the importance of personal preparedness and following park guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for all attendees.

Brad Ryan [57:36]: "Be honest about your abilities so that you don't get injured."

Conclusion and How to Join

With a diverse array of adventure trips planned for 2025, LGBTQ Outdoors continues to champion inclusivity and community in the great outdoors. Whether you're an experienced hiker, a budding fly angler, or someone seeking a new adventure, there's a trip tailored just for you.

Joining the Adventures:

• Website: Visit LGBTQOutdoors.com and navigate to the Adventure Trips section for detailed information on each trip.
• Waitlist: For full trips like Alaska, join the waitlist to secure your chance to participate.
• Contact: Reach out via email at lgbtoutdoors.com or connect through Instagram @LGBTOutdoors for personalized inquiries.

Stay Connected: Subscribe to the LGBTQ Outdoors newsletter to stay updated on upcoming trips, local events, and community news. Engage with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and become part of a supportive and vibrant community.

Patrick [60:50]: "If you have any questions, reach out to Brad. I know that he would be happy to connect with you and answer any that you have."

Embark on these transformative adventures to explore, connect, and celebrate the outdoors within a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Join the Journey and Embrace the Adventure!