These New Outdoor Adventure Itineraries Celebrate Black Culture and the Outdoors

The partnership returns for the third year with a trio of small-group guided trips in Shenandoah and New River Gorge national parks.

Growing up in northern California, Rue Mapp grew up enjoying the great outdoors with her family. Recognizing the gap in the market between the Black community and the outdoor industry, she started Outdoor Afro, Inc. in 2021 to bridge the gap.

Now the organization returns for the third year partnering with REI Co-op, including the debut of three guided trips — each designed by Black outdoor enthusiasts.

“This collaboration is meant to bring an unforgettable experience through thoughtfully curated itineraries, so there is something for everyone,” Mapp said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure. “You’ll have the opportunity to explore, reconnect, and enjoy rich cultural experiences celebrating Black joy in nature.”

All of the itineraries are small-group trips lasting four days and will be co-led by guides from both organizations.

For those looking for a gentle outdoor experience, the Shenandoah and DC Hike and Kayak, is rated “easy active” with one night in a hotel and two nights in a historic lodge. The trip begins in Washington, D.C. with a tour of Old Town Alexandria’s Black history, before kayaking on the Potomac River. Travelers will then venture onto the Shenandoah Valley for a hike to Whiteoak Canyon, including spotting waterfalls, as well as exploring caverns. Also on the agenda: a tasting at a Black-owned vineyard and a discussion about the region’s divided history. With departure dates in September and October, the trip starts at $1,799 per person.

Those who crave a bit more adventure can opt for the Shenandoah Hike and Camp Adventure, a “moderately active” trip with hiking to Shenandoah National Park's highest point, Hawksbill Summit, as well as its iconic peak of Old Rag, plus kayaking on the  Shenandoah River. Departures run from July through October, starting at $2,799 per person.

Finally, families are encouraged to get into nature with the New River Gorge Epic Family Camping Getaway. Ideal for kids at least eight years old, as well as their parents and grandparents, travelers of all ages will enjoy easy whitewater rafting, canopy rope courses, and hikes. But the most exciting part is enjoying the camping experience, with oversized tents and sleeping pads, alongside the comforts of home with tasty meals, hot showers, and flushing toilets. Prices start at $2,499 for July through August departures.

"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,” Justin Wood, REI director of Experiences, said in a release. “These are memory-making trips, sure to last a lifetime."

In addition to the three trips, the collaboration is also debuting new outdoor gear, ranging from a camp sleep system Skyward 4 Tent and Nature Nap Satin Pillow, to an entire updated apparel collection.  

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