Black Girls Trekkin
Hiking, general outdoors, Community organizer
The mission of BGT is to provide experiences that inspire Black women to pursue outdoors adventures with confidence, establish connections with one another, recreate on the land with care, and rekindle a deep-rooted cultural relationship with nature.
A community-driven organization that encourages Black women and other women of color to explore the outdoors, prioritize their wellness, and build meaningful connections through nature. Founded in 2017 by Tiffany Tharpe and Michelle Race, the group was born out of a desire to create safe and welcoming spaces for women of color to experience hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures. By focusing on representation and empowerment, Black Girls Trekkin’ inspires participants to step out of their comfort zones and discover the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of connecting with the natural world.
The organization hosts regular outdoor events, such as hikes, wellness retreats, and skill-building workshops, to make the outdoors accessible and enjoyable for women of all experience levels. These gatherings emphasize camaraderie, personal growth, and a collective appreciation for nature. Black Girls Trekkin’ also addresses the unique challenges women of color face in outdoor spaces, including underrepresentation, safety concerns, and a lack of culturally relevant resources, fostering a supportive and affirming environment for all participants.
Black Girls Trekkin’ is more than an outdoor group—it’s a movement that reclaims space and redefines what it means to belong in nature. By sharing stories, partnering with like-minded organizations, and championing diversity in outdoor culture, Black Girls Trekkin’ continues to amplify the voices of women of color in outdoor recreation. Their work serves as a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to experience the healing and transformative power of the outdoors, no matter their background or level of experience.