About TrailMix™
How It Started
TrailMix NWA was born from a shared vision: to create a community for those looking for something different. We wanted a space where people could connect, not out of tradition nor obligation, but from a desire for genuine connection, shared values, and a sense of belonging.
On September 10, 2023, we gathered for the very first time at the Ozark Highlands Nature Center, surrounded by the beauty of Northwest Arkansas. Families and friends, new and old, came together for a brunch potluck, spilling into the trails and wading in Spring Creek, with kids filling the natural playground with laughter. The turnout was incredible, confirming what we’d all felt—a secular, inclusive, community-centered space was needed here.
TrailMix NWA is about more than a weekly gathering. It’s about creating a home for progressive voices, where anyone can find support, connection, and a place to share life’s moments. We meet regularly in nature, embrace each season, and continue to grow, bringing people together one potluck, hike, and laugh at a time.
How It’s Going
We’ve had a lot of Sundays together plus camping and socials. We’ve got many more planned ahead. Here are some of the locations we’ve had our gatherings over our first year.
Our Mission
Empowered individuals making a positive impact in NWA through providing secular community, promoting environmental stewardship, and facilitating values-based education.
Our Vision
A thoughtful, secular, safe space in NWA.
THREE PILLARS
Secular Community
Our community provides a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for families and individuals who share progressive, secular values. We are committed to reflecting the diversity of Northwest Arkansas and creating an environment where people from all backgrounds can come together. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent-friendly, and focused on fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. Whether you’re joining us for seasonal rituals, family events, or weekly meet-ups, our community is dedicated to supporting one another through all phases of life, helping each other grow and thrive in a village-like atmosphere.
Environmental Stewardship
We believe in fostering a love for nature and practicing mindful stewardship of our environment. Through outdoor recreation, hands-on volunteer opportunities, nature-based activities, and environmental education, we aim to empower our members to care for local landscapes and respect our natural resources. Our commitment to environmentalism extends to social justice and mindful consumption, as we seek to create a sustainable, interconnected ecosystem where every action contributes to the well-being of our land and community. Together, we are dedicated to preserving and enhancing the beauty of Northwest Arkansas for future generations.
Values-Based Education
We offer a supportive space for families to help shape compassionate, environmentally conscious, and civically engaged future citizens. Our programming emphasizes scientific and holistic education, focusing on the moral and intellectual development of each individual. Through our Nature Preschool Co-ops, young children can explore and learn in an outdoor, hands-on environment that fosters a deep connection to nature. From moral compass workshops to community-driven initiatives for social and climate justice, we nurture the whole person, equipping families with the resources they need to foster kindness, integrity, and a shared hope for a better future. By embracing progressive values and inclusivity, we empower our members to be both thoughtful neighbors and stewards of change in the community.
TrailMix Sundays
Our bimonthly Sunday morning gatherings cultivate a sense of community through shared experiences and adventures within our sanctuary of nature. Whether you join the hike or relax with the potluck and board games, you’re sure to enjoy great conversation and connection.
Youth Education
TrailMix NWA offers a variety of secular, values-based educational opportunities for children and families. Our parent-led nature preschool co-ops provide hands-on learning through outdoor exploration, activities, and play. For older children, our gatherings naturally foster learning through hikes, nature walks, and camping, where we incorporate science, environmental awareness, and progressive storytelling to teach important values.
Group Campouts
Our quarterly group camping trips offer a full immersion in the beauty of each season, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for families who might not otherwise venture out on their own. Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned adventurer, you’ll feel right at home in the company of others.
Holiday and Seasonal
At TrailMix NWA, we love to savor seasonal peaks and cusps, providing family-friendly celebrations that are inclusive, secular, and safe for all. Whether it’s a solstice, equinox, Earth Day, a community-driven Trunk or Treat, or a secular Egg Hunt, we’re here for it.
Community Mixers
A variety of supplemental events designed to deepen connections beyond our regular TrailMix Sundays gatherings. From Member Night Outs to Crafternoons and other interest-based activities, TrailMix Connections offers new ways to share, learn, and create together–off the trail!
TrailMix Gives Back
We aim to connect to the community at large through services such as book drives, park cleanups, collecting shelter donations, and providing educational workshops rooted in environmental stewardship, connection to the land, and self-care.
