Monthly Hike

Once a month, on the second Sunday, we take our community out of the city and into the more wild places around the Portland area. Some of these trips are exploratory hikes, some are foraging adventures, and others are a combination of both. This is a great opportunity to socialize, learn more about the natural world, get out of the city and into the forest–or explore the natural areas right here in our backyard, and more. 

**Hike Location Disclaimer** Hike locations are subject to change due to a variety of factors, including but not limited to weather conditions, trail maintenance, safety concerns, and unforeseen circumstances. We prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants, and we may adjust hike routes, locations, or schedules as necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Attendees are required to RSVP. This allows us to keep you informed about any last minute location or date changes due to weather/trail conditions, or changes in staff availability. Your RSVP also make it possible for us to send you all the logistical details you need to attend, which will arrive to you via email by no later than the Friday prior to date of the hike. Please RSVP below and we look forward to seeing you!

This and our other free programs are made possible by our volunteers and financial support from our community. To become a monthly supporter, go to our donate page. To become a volunteer, please see our volunteer opportunities page.

Ryann Jaymes Strife, aka RJ or Ryy (ki/kin/they/them), is a longtime community member and volunteer, and currently the coordinator for our Monthly Hike. Monthly Hikes have gone through some interruptions in recent years, and RJ has been central to getting them back up and running.

RJ was a military brat who grew up in a lot of different places, including Ohio, California, Colorado, Indiana, New Mexico, and even England. Ki has been at home in many places but feels a special connection to New Mexico—and now Oregon, which has been their home for the last six-plus years. They fell in love at first sight with this part of the world: “There is so much life and beauty here, and while New Mexico has its own beauty, there is something about Oregon that feels more lively and full of energy.”

RJ is passionate about mushrooms and moss, has a deep desire to understand more about them, and spends a lot of time crafting mossy mushroom art. They enjoy finding groups or classes to learn more about these topics as well, and enjoy hiking around the region, finding new trails with new sights.

Professionally, RJ works full-time as an accounting specialist for a small company in Portland and part-time as a tutor for accounting, statistics, and math students in Gresham.