COAL CREEK CANYON — Operating out of a small cabin in Wondervu, Colorado, Outcrop Wilderness was built on the extensive backcountry experience of James Saunders and Kate Barrett. The long-time colleagues and friends wanted to add something special to the community they live in, and now they organize and guide LGBTQ+ backpacking trips.

Outcrop Wilderness has been in business since October 2025 and is a Colorado-based full-service outdoor guiding company. It specializes in organizing premium backpacking trips, including fresh food from local farms and high-quality gear. 

Saunders and Barrett designed their company largely to serve LGBTQ+ adults. They focus on creating an environment of growth and safety for clients and staff.

Their backpacking trips are typically five days and four nights long, but special or custom trips can range anywhere from one to five days. 

Photo Courtesy of Outcrop Wilderness

Their custom trips accommodate friends, family, and allies alike. For those who are interested, a five-day sample itinerary is provided on their website at outcropwilderness.com/custom-backpacking-trips.

Saunders cares deeply about trip details being well-thought-out; that’s why you can count on the logistics and route of the trip to be thoroughly planned so you can just focus on being present. 

Outcrop Wilderness also wants to extend a discount to Coal Creek Canyon, Nederland, and other Peak to Peak residents by waiving the trip deposit fees for any of their upcoming 2027 trips. 

“Because queer people, families, and allies deserve more than just a safe space outdoors—we deserve an exceptional one,” Saunders said. 

Photo Courtesy of Outcrop Wilderness

For more information about the discount, or any general questions, reach out to howdy@outcropwilderness.com.