Pride on the trail: LGBTQ hiking, running, and birding groups to join in Pennsylvania

We’re highlighting some LGBTQ hiking, running, and birding groups that offer a safe, supportive community in the commonwealth state.

If you are a member of the LGBTQ community in Pennsylvania, or an ally, here are some hiking, running, and birding groups in the commonwealth that offer a safe, inclusive environment to enjoy the outdoors.

Lez-Get Active LGBTQ+ Hiking, Adventure Group of PA, Philadelphia

Lez-Get Active LGBTQ+ Hiking, Adventure Group of PA is dedicated to providing a safe space and supportive environment for those seeking to connect with like-minded individuals in and around the Philadelphia area. The group offers moderate hikes, bike riding, social meet-ups at parks, and outdoor bar/restaurant venues.

OUT on the Trails, Philadelphia

OUT on the Trails offers hiking and biking for queer Philadelphians who want to meet up and get outdoors. The group also swims, plays tennis, shoots hoops, rollerskates, ice skates, and plays mini-golf.

Pittsburgh LGBTQ Walk + Run Meetups, Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh LGBTQ Walk + Run Meetups include casual walk/run meet ups for the LGBTQ+ community in and around the Pittsburgh area.

Chester County LGBTQIA+ Hiking Group, Phoenixville

Based in Phoenixville, the Chester County LGBTQIA+ Hiking Group provides opportunities for LGBTQIA+ individuals to discover the beauty of the great outdoors in an inclusive and supportive community.

ASCEND Erie Queer Scouts Climbing Club, Erie

Erie’s ASCEND Erie Queer Scouts Climbing Club is an LGBTQ+ indoor climbing club with the goal of creating connections and a safer and more inclusive community. The club meets every second and fourth Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the gym, located at 426 State St.

Philly Queer Birders, Philadelphia

Philly Queer Birders is a queer community group that explores all the great birding that the Philadelphia area has to offer. The group typically meets up monthly at different locations, including at FDR Park, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, the Woodlands, and more.

Lez Run, Philadelphia

Lez Run was created for members of the LGBTQ community, along with their friends and family, to meet up once a week for a casual group run on Saturdays, rain or shine. Long runs, social events, and post-race fun activities are also scheduled. The group aims to run local, out of state, and out of the country races to represent the LGBTQ community.

Pittsburgh Frontrunners, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Frontrunners is an active running club for Pittsburgh’s LGBTQ community. The group runs for good health, trains for races, and participates in gay-friendly social activities. The group has weekly runs that occur on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.