Queer Crossing is a rite of passage experience specifically for queer youth (questioning or identified).

This program offer challenges, mentoring and support to youth as they explore nature in the company of peers and guides who share a similar lived experience.

Through a combination of facilitated and self-led explorations, youth will discover inner resources that allow them to claim identities, feel belonging, develop resiliency and offer their unique gifts to the world, supported and celebrated by a joyful and vibrant community.

As with all our jounreys, this trip centers around a solo vigil of 24 hours duration. This is an opportunity for the youth to be fully with themselves in nature, to consider their unique callings and to receive guidance from the wild world.

In the days leading up to the vigil, youth will experience a variety of activities that prepare them to meet the challenges of spending time alone in nature. Following the vigil, youth will engage in mindful integration of their newfound skills and visions.

Participants will return to basecamp in celebration of their journey and learnings, greeted by family, friends, mentors and community.

We welcome feedback and suggestions and strive to be a place you trust to best serve your needs and unique gift of Queerness.

Our intention is to hold safe space for our teenagers, so that they may connect to their authentic voice, their truth, and their inner spark.

There will be campfires with storytelling and talking circles under the stars by night. By day, we’ll keep cool and hydrated along the trail, enjoying big views, black sand beaches, waterfalls galore, beautiful rivers, and many opportunities to swim and play.

In this program we welcome young people with any amount of backpacking experience, including none. Participants should be in physical condition to hike up to 4 to 5 miles in a day with a heavy pack; however, physical challenge isn’t the purpose of this experience, and most days will be less strenuous.

Join us on this epic adventure and prepare to explore your inner landscape while adventuring into one of the most magical valleys in the Hawaiian Islands, Waimanu Valley.