Outdoor Afro Inc. and REI Co-op announced a collaboration for three new fully-guided trip offerings that will operate July through October in New River Gorge National Park, Shenandoah National Park and surrounding regions.
Each experience is a four-day guided trip that celebrates Black joy by amplifying belonging, togetherness, and connection with nature, REI Co-op said in a release.
These small group experiences will be co-guided by Outdoor Afro Inc. and REI Co-op guides, and were designed with a focus on Black history and culture, past and present. The trips are open to everyone from outdoor enthusiasts and those who are outdoor curious, with adventure-based activities and education about nature and Black history of each region.
“As a longstanding partner of REI Co-op, I am thrilled to expand our collaboration by bringing multi-day guided experiences,” said Rue Mapp, founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro Inc. “This collaboration is meant to bring an unforgettable experience through thoughtfully curated itineraries so there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fun family camping adventure, hiking, and kayaking, or a lodge-based experience filled with adventure and historical tours in D.C., you’ll have the opportunity to explore, reconnect and enjoy rich cultural experiences celebrating Black joy in nature.”
New multiday trips are available to book now:
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- Shenandoah Hike and Camp Adventure: A four-day “moderately active” trip priced at $1,799. Guests will immerse themselves in landscape of Shenandoah National Park by kayaking the Shenandoah River; hiking to the pinnacle of Old Rag, through Big Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, and to the park’s highest point, Hawksbill Summit; exploring the waterfalls in Whiteoak Canyon; and unwinding at a local vineyard complete with a tour, tasting and dinner.
- New River Gorge Epic Family Camping Getaway: A four-day “easy active” family-friendly camping getaway priced at $2,499, perfect for families with children aged eight years and older, parents and grandparents alike. Guests will explore New River Gorge through hiking, beginner-friendly whitewater rafting and a canopy level ropes course. Evenings are spent at a campground complete with oversized tents, plush sleeping pads, chef-inspired meals and conveniences of hot showers and flushing toilets.
- Shenandoah and D.C. Hike and Kayak – Lodge-based: A four-day “easy active” trip priced at $2,799. Starting and ending in Washington, D.C., travelers will kayak and hike while camping at Shenandoah National Park. Beginning in Old Town Alexandria, guests will learn about Black history and culture, kayak the Potomac and hike in Shenandoah Valley and the national park. Highlights also include a local speaker who reflects on the region’s divided history and a tour and tasting at a Black-owned vineyard.
“We’re excited to bring these new trips to life with Outdoor Afro Inc.,” said Justin Wood, REI director of experiences. “The Outdoor Afro Inc. team has thoughtfully considered every detail to deliver a meaningful and truly authentic experience for guests, from the food to the activities to the focus on Black history and culture, past and present, in the places we explore. These are memory-making trips, sure to last a lifetime.”
Each trip has been inspired by Rue Mapp and the Outdoor Afro and REI Co-op communities. Low- to no-cost outdoor experiences are available nationwide through the not-for-profit organization Outdoor Afro. REI members also receive discounts on additional classes, events and multiday trips.
Outdoor Afro Inc. and REI Co-op have also released new spring products the companies said are aimed to amplify Black joy in nature. This collection designed a line for everyone with inspiration from the Outdoor Afro community. Apparel and camp gear range from $89.95 to $99.95 and $29.94 to $399.95 respectively.
The new gear collection for spring features graphic prints by artist Chelsea Alexander, founder of Sqwigl and known for her work with various global brands. Products include a special edition Skyward 4 Tent, camp sleep system featuring a Nature Nap 25 Zip-Up Comforter, and a Nature Nap Satin Pillow to reduce friction and breakage for natural hair. Other items from the collaboration include new backpacks and apparel, some of which have received color updates for the spring season.