When: December 7, 2024 @ 12:00 pm
Come be “out in the outdoors”!
Calling WNC’s LGBTQIA+ community! Let’s gather to share the company of nature and our fellow community members. Every other month, we will come together to create a welcoming and inclusive outdoor space as we wander in the woods, connecting to each other and the natural world around us. We’ll take time to notice, appreciate, and learn about the creatures that call this place home, from the tiny beetles to the mighty trees. Along the way, we will find a spot to stop and enjoy a seasonal treat. This safe space is open to anyone who can use it- friends, family, and allies are welcome too!
This month, we will be Out in Rabun Gap, GA at the historic Hopper House. Mainspring holds a conservation easement on this picturesque cabin, which allows the important natural and cultural qualities of the property to be protected while keeping it in private ownership. The owners have graciously given our club permission to hold our winter bonfire at their home, so join us to enjoy the warmth of flames and friendship while roasting marshmallows alongside this remarkable structure! Read more about the Hopper House in Mainspring’s 2020 Land Steward publication, pages 8-11.
Since this is a private property, the exact meeting address will only be shared with those who register in advance. Fill out the registration form below, and expect an email in the week leading up to the event with the address. To ensure you receive the address in time, please register for this event by Wednesday, December 4th. For planning purposes, the property is near the Hambidge Center. Attendees are encouraged to bring a camp chair (or other seating option), warm layers, waterproof shoes, water, and sun protection. Optionally, feel free to bring wood to contribute to the fire, though we will have plenty to keep us cozy throughout the event. S’mores will be provided but, as always, members are welcome to bring an additional snack to share with the club. Gluten-free and vegan marshmallows will be available.
2024 Schedule
Saturday, February 10th, 11:00am-1:00pm- Icicle Hike at Whiteside Mountain, Highlands
Saturday, April 13th, 10:00am-12:00pm- Birding Walk at Tessentee Bottomland Preserve, Franklin
Saturday, June 15th, 4:00pm-6:00pm- Flame Azalea Walk at Hooper Bald, Robbinsville
Saturday, August 10th, 12:00pm-2:00pm- Snorkeling at Queen Branch Preserve, Franklin
Saturday, October 19th, 12:00pm-3:00pm- Fall Colors Hike, Siler Bald, Topton
Saturday, December 7th, 12:00pm-3:00pm- Winter Bonfire, Rabun Gap, GA
2025 schedule coming soon! Be sure to subscribe to our email list below to stay up-to-date on our meetings.
Meet your leaders
As Mainspring’s Conservation Outreach Director, Skye (she/her) inspires communities to engage and connect with nature. She is a queer naturalist who is especially passionate about mosses, fungi, trees, and salamanders.
Gillian (she/her) is a queer conservation practitioner who strives to build community by connecting with others in nature and working to ensure that public lands are a welcome and safe space for all.
Email Skye at [email protected] with any questions. Please leave pets at home. This event is weather-dependent.
