Empowering Women Through Nature: The Rise of the Women’s Outdoor Club

In mid-June, Lillian Hardy unexpectedly ignited a movement during a gathering she hosted for women at a secluded river spot in Oxbow Park, near Troutdale.

A Community Created

Hardy, the founder of the brand Landdd, initially expected a small turnout for the event she advertised on Instagram. To her surprise, over 30 women attended, and the accompanying WhatsApp group quickly expanded to include 300 members within a day. As word spread, the group, now known as the “Women’s Outdoor Club,” has grown to over 850 members and birthed 13 subgroups focusing on various outdoor activities and community support.

Branching Out

Members of the Women’s Outdoor Club have taken the initiative to establish gear-swap chats, coordinate ride shares, and share backpacking plans. There is even a subgroup dedicated to job opportunities, indicating a strong sense of community among members. Hardy noted the availability of the Instagram handle @womensoutdoorclub, illustrating a noticeable gap in female representation within the outdoor industry.

Creating a Safe Space

Hardy, reflecting on her unique position in the outdoor space in the U.S., emphasized the need for female-centric gatherings. Events hosted by the club include watercolor painting near waterfalls, beach cleanups, and vibrant picnics, where attendees enjoy camaraderie in a relaxed, supportive environment. One participant, Joey Beso, shared that experiencing these activities in a female-only space was refreshing and comforting.

Landdd as a Hub of Creativity

The Women’s Outdoor Club is one facet of Hardy’s broader vision with Landdd, a design-forward outdoor store in Old Town. Since its inception in 2022, Landdd has served not just as a retail space but as a venue for community engagement and workshops. Hardy transformed a former ambulance garage she found on Craigslist into a creatively arranged store, incorporating her personal touch into every corner of the space.

Beyond Retail: A Focus on Experiences

Landdd’s events began as a response to the isolation many felt during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hardy sought to connect individuals through workshops, leading to the realization that people desired outdoor experiences. Thus, Landdd’s activities transitioned outside, creating memorable gatherings like botany tours in the Columbia River Gorge.

Thriving Through Collaboration

These outdoor events not only promote engagement with nature but also foster partnerships with local businesses and brands. Each gathering incorporates elements from various collaborators, enhancing the overall experience for participants. Attendee Brooke Lyons noted the thoughtfulness behind these partnerships, which bring a unique flair to each event.

Regular Outings and Diverse Activities

Today, Landdd offers multiple outdoor activities each week, ranging from creative workshops to adventure outings like fly-fishing and hiking. While some events are free, others might require fees to cover necessary expenses, such as equipment rentals or guest guides. However, Hardy emphasizes value, ensuring participants leave with new skills, memorable experiences, and potentially new friendships.

Visit Landdd

Landdd operates at 714 NW Glisan St., with hours available from noon to 5 PM every Saturday and Sunday. For more information regarding events, visit Landdd’s website.