Ever felt like the only rainbow in a sea of flannel in Bend?
I remember my first winter here, standing in the middle of Drake Park, snowflakes catching on my eyelashes as I wondered if I'd ever find my people in this outdoor paradise.
Finding Queer Joy in the High Desert
Three years ago, I moved to Bend with my succulents, my hiking boots, and absolutely zero connections. The mountains called to me, but I worried my queerness might feel too loud for this adventure town. That first month, I accidentally walked into what I thought was an inclusive event that turned out to be... well, let's just say I've never felt more conspicuous in my life!
When You're Searching for Your People
The struggle is real when:
- Dating apps show the same 15 profiles over and over
- You can't tell if that cute person at Backporch Coffee is family or just Portland-hip
- Every meetup seems centered around straight couples with dogs
- You're tired of being the "token queer friend" in your outdoor groups
Creating Your Own Magic
What I've learned is that queer community here exists in the spaces we create. Start small—I began hosting monthly potlucks that grew from 3 friends to over 20 beautiful humans who now form my chosen family. The Out Central Oregon events became my lifeline, especially Pride in the high desert!
Remember, your authenticity is a beacon that draws others to you. Your story matters, and somewhere in this mountain town, someone is hoping to find exactly you.
Drop a comment about your Bend experience or what community means to you—let's keep weaving this beautiful queer tapestry together. You are seen, you belong here, and you are never as alone as you feel.