The Washington Grunge, in partnership with Georges River Land Trust, will host Welcoming Walkabouts, outdoor meetups for LGBTQIA+ community members at various trails throughout the Midcoast this summer. Treks include a short hike with time to foster connections with each other and with nature.

The first Welcoming Walkabout will take place at Gibson Preserve in Searsmont on Saturday, May 23, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. LGBTQIA+ community members, along with their allies, are invited to explore the preserve’s woodland, riverside trails and connect with new and familiar friends.

These walks are free and open to all ages. Children and leashed dogs are welcome. Please register at georgesriver.org/events. If you take photos at the event, please make sure you have permission from others.

Upcoming Welcoming Walkabouts include:

Saturday, May 23 at Gibson Preserve (Searsmont)

Sunday, June 14 at Trout Brook Preserve (Alna)

Saturday, June 20 at Pool Preserve (Union)

Sunday, July 5 at Maguire Preserve (Whitefield)

Sunday, July 19 at Cross Cushing Preserve (Cushing)

Saturday, Aug 8 at West Branch Preserve (Jefferson)

The Washington Grunge is an affirming rural community for LGBTQIA+ folks, families, and friends. Founded in west Knox County, all are welcome to come as they are. Welcoming Walkabouts are hosted by Grunge founder Sarah Masters. Masters is a local journalist covering regional arts programming.

"Georges River Land Trust and Midcoast Conservancy are proud to partner with The Grunge to offer these walks in striving to create safe, accessible outdoor experiences for all community members," said the news release.

Directions: Gibson Preserve is located at 621 Woodsman Mill Rd in Searsmont. A parking lot is available next to the large green hanging sign. There is a 0.4-mile ADA-accessible loop trail along the river, which can be accessed from the parking lot. A bathroom is available on-site, but please note it is not ADA-accessible.

Georges River Land Trust has been conserving and caring for the St. George River watershed since 1987. The land trust has conserved over 5,600 acres of forest, farm, and shoreline, and provides over 80 miles of public trails in 19 towns from Cushing to Liberty. This conservation work is supported by over 1,000 community members. Visit georgesriver.org to join the community and learn more.