The outdoors has a way of bringing people together. Whether you’re hiking a local trail, trying rock climbing for the first time, or gathering around a table to share a meal, spending time outside can create meaningful connections. Latino Outdoors Wisconsin intentionally creates those meaningful connections. I had the opportunity to talk with one of the leaders, Lupe, and learn more about the organization’s mission, the events they host, and what they hope people take away from being part of their community.
The History of Latino Outdoors Wisconsin
Unfortunately, not everyone experiences feeling included in outdoor spaces. That is what prompted the creation of Latino Outdoors and the Wisconsin Chapter.
Latino Outdoors was initially established in California and has since grown to throughout the United States. The Wisconsin chapter started in November of 2025. In the mid-west there are currently chapters in Madison, Chicago and Minneapolis.
Latino Outdoors is a community-centered organization that connects Latine communities with outdoor recreation while celebrating culture, family, and heritage. Through a variety of events and activities, the Wisconsin chapter is helping local people discover new outdoor experiences. And perhaps more importantly, find a sense of belonging.
What is the mission of Latino Outdoors Wisconsin?
Latino Outdoors inspires and connects communities to the outdoors. Centering Latine culture, celebrating family and heritage, and uplifting the history and leadership of Latine communities as part of the outdoor experience.
The organization envisions a world where everyone can experience nature as a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space. It’s about creating opportunities for people to share their stories, build relationships, and develop a deeper connection with the outdoors.
With Latino Outdoors Wisconsin, that mission comes to life through community events that welcome people of different interests, backgrounds, and experience levels.
Outdoor events that celebrate culture and community
One of the things that makes Latino Outdoors Wisconsin special is the variety of activities they offer. In its first year, the chapter has hosted birding events, hikes, arts and crafts, kayaking, and climbing events.
The goal is to create opportunities for people with different interests and abilities to experience the outdoors in ways that feel enjoyable and accessible. And, of course, food is often part of the experience.
Food plays an important role in many Latine communities, bringing people together through family traditions, shared meals, and cultural connection. Incorporating food into events is another way Latino Outdoors Wisconsin celebrates the culture and community at the heart of its mission.
These gatherings remind us that outdoor experiences don’t have to look one particular way. A hike, a climbing session, a creative activity, or a shared meal can all be meaningful ways to connect with nature and one another. Most importantly, it’s simply about showing up, meeting someone new, and enjoying time together.
Finding community in an unexpected place
When I asked Lupe her favorite part of Latino Outdoors Wisconsin, she shared that meeting new people and introducing them to new activities has been especially rewarding. That sense of connection is a central part of the organization’s work.
Living in a predominantly white city can sometimes make it difficult to find spaces where you feel represented or connected to people who share your background. But Latino Outdoors Wisconsin is helping make those connections more visible.
There are Latine people from all walks of life throughout the Madison area. By creating opportunities to gather, the organization helps bring those individuals together.
Lupe explained, one of the most important things she hopes people remember after attending an event is that community can be found anywhere.
Community has long been an important part of resilience and survival. Creating opportunities to connect, celebrate shared experiences, and support one another helps carry that strength forward. And that sense of belonging is not limited to the people who already know one another. Every event is an opportunity to meet someone new and build another connection.
The outdoors is for everyone
It can be intimidating to try a new outdoor activity, especially if you’re unsure what to expect or whether you’ll fit in. When asked what Lupe would say to someone who feels hesitant about attending an event, the response was simple:
“Come on over! Latine folks are some of the most welcoming people you’ll ever meet! Also, we will most likely have food at an event!”
That welcoming spirit is a reminder that the outdoors isn’t reserved for people with the right gear, years of experience, or a particular idea of what an outdoor enthusiast should look like. There is room for everyone.
How to get involved with Latino Outdoors Wisconsin
Although Latino Outdoors Wisconsin is not currently accepting new leaders, the chapter welcomes people to attend an event, follow along on social media, and share ideas for future activities.
They’re also open to collaborating with other organizations and companies that want to create meaningful outdoor experiences. If there’s an activity you’d love to see them host, reach out and let them know!
You can follow Latino Outdoors Wisconsin on Instagram at @latinooutdoorswisconsin to learn about upcoming events and opportunities to get involved.
Building a more welcoming outdoor community
At Summit Strength & Fitness, we believe that movement and outdoor experiences can help people feel stronger, more capable, and more connected to the world around them.
Building a strong outdoor community means more than encouraging people to hike farther, climb harder, or train for their next adventure. It also means creating spaces where people feel welcome, represented, and supported. We are thankful for Latino Outdoors Wisconsin for doing exactly that.