Meet the sisters who launched a hiking group for BIPOC hikers

Meet the sisters who launched a hiking group for BIPOC hikers

From Peak Northwest by The Oregonian/OregonLive

May 28, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

The episode features the co-founders of AmigxPNW discussing their efforts to create inclusive outdoor spaces for BIPOC communities.

Outdoor recreation hasn’t always felt accessible or inviting to everyone. On this week’s episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, we explore AmigxPNW, a group dedicated to creating spaces for Black, brown and Indigenous communities of color to connect through hiking, camping and outdoor exploration across the Pacific Northwest. Guests Maria Velador Gonzales and Diana Velador Gonzales, co-founders of AmigxPNW, share how the group got started, how people can join upcoming hikes and why representation and community matter in outdoor spaces. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: How and why AmigxPNW was created. What first-time participants can expect from the group’s hikes and events. Why representation matters in outdoor recreation spaces. How community-building can help people feel more connected to nature and each other. Subscribe to Peak Northwest on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Guests: Maria Velador Gonzales, Diana Velador Gonzales

Topics covered

  • hiking
  • BIPOC communities
  • outdoor recreation
  • representation
  • community building

Keywords

  • hiking group
  • BIPOC hikers
  • outdoor exploration
  • community connection
  • representation in nature

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: AmigxPNW

Places: Pacific Northwest

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