This event is like no other event you’ve ever attended - and the theme is to welcome EVERYONE.  Specifically, we’re calling for queer and transgender runners, and their allies, to come play on the trails with us - regardless of competition or athletic level.  No matter who you are, or what ‘box’ you might check, you are encouraged to participate - we’re celebrating everybody and every-body at this fest!

Hosted on the beautiful trails at the Berkshire East Mountain Resort, the “AOTA Trail Fest” will offer a longer (21k) competitive prediction run, a (5k) run/hike, and a Kid’s Fun Run for the little (but mighty) ones.  Prizes will be awarded NOT based on gendered placing (heck, we aren’t even collecting gender data when you register), but based on who predicts their finish time the closest, as well as other equally important criteria such as ‘who has the most fun out there’.  At the 5k, we aren’t timing the event and there won’t be ranked results - this is a place to find your joy, push yourself (if you want!), and experience the trail with no judgment.

This Trail Fest is a fundraiser for The Venture Out Project, which leads backpacking and wilderness trips for the queer and transgender community.  They create opportunities for members of the LGBTQ+ community to connect and enjoy the outdoors, build resiliency, and learn new skills.  Isn't that AWESOME?

The Venture Out Project is a non-profit that leads backpacking and wilderness trips for the queer and transgender community.  TVOP creates safe opportunities for members of the LGBTQ+ community to connect and enjoy the outdoors. Be a part of the great work we do at The Venture Out Project, become a fundraising superstar! Your support of these fundraising efforts helps TVOP expand the work they do to connect the LGBTQ+ community to the outdoors. TVOP is proud to offer scholarships, sliding scale, and reparations based pricing for all of their trips and events. The AOTA Trail Fest helps The Venture Out Project do that work, and better serve more members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Contributing to this fundraiser is a great way to show additional support and ultimately allow The Venture Out Project to expand the amazing work they are already doing.  We thank you for any donations you and/or your friends and family are willing to contribute.

If you'd like to learn more about The Venture Out Project, check out what they have going on here!