About Us

OUR STORY

Hi, I’m Tee — the creator of Shades of Nature.
If you’ve been part of my community for a while, you know this brand didn’t start as a business. It started as a feeling.

A feeling of wanting to explore the outdoors…
but not always feeling welcomed in those spaces.
A feeling of loving nature…
but often being the only Black woman on the trail.
A feeling of wishing there were more people who looked like me outside — hiking, traveling, laughing, exploring, and simply existing in nature without pressure.

Shades of Nature was born because I wanted to create the space I didn’t see growing up.
A space where people of color feel safe, represented, supported, and excited to explore the outdoors — no matter their experience level.

What started as a few group hikes has grown into a full community that travels together, rests together, and tries new things together. We host beginner-friendly hikes, glamping weekends, U.S. trips, international adventures, and soon… outdoor apparel designed specifically with us in mind.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Shades of Nature is built around a few simple, powerful truths:

Everyone belongs outside.

You don’t need the “right look,” the “right gear,” or the “right background” to enjoy nature. You just need curiosity and a willingness to show up.

Representation matters.

When you see people who look like you exploring the outdoors, something shifts. Confidence grows. Possibilities expand. That’s why we center people of color — always.

Community changes everything.

Traveling and getting outside is easier (and more fun) when you’re not doing it alone. Our group trips are filled with connection, laughter, and people who become family fast.

Adventure should be accessible.

You don’t need to be a professional hiker or seasoned traveler. We create mostly-inclusive trips so all you have to do is show up — no stress, no over-planning, no guesswork.

Rest is just as important as adventure.

You’ll find space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect on every trip. We create experiences that leave you feeling recharged, not exhausted.

WHAT WE DO

Shades of Nature offers outdoor experiences for every comfort level:

Local Group Hikes

Beginner-friendly, welcoming, and perfect for meeting new people.

Glamping Retreats & Wellness Weekends

Rest, reset, and reconnect with nature in luxury tents or cozy cabins.

U.S. Weekend Trips

Curated itineraries with scenic views, waterfalls, good food, and community.

International Adventures

Mostly-inclusive trips that make exploring the world feel safe and doable.

Outdoor Apparel

Thoughtfully designed pieces that make people of color feel seen, stylish, and confident in nature.

Whether you’re brand new to the outdoors or someone who spends every weekend chasing a view, there’s a place for you here.

WHY WE’RE DIFFERENT

There are plenty of outdoor companies, but Shades of Nature is personal, intentional, and rooted in culture.

We focus on:

  • Inclusivity — You won’t feel like the only person of color in the room or on the trail.
  • Community — People walk in as strangers and leave as friends.
  • Safety — Every destination, partner, and activity is vetted with care.
  • Beginners — No experience required; we guide you every step of the way.
  • Connection — Real conversations, shared experiences, and memories you’ll hold forever.
  • Ease — Most trips are mostly-inclusive so you can just show up and enjoy.

We encourage people of color to take up space in outdoor places and explore with confidence.

JOIN US

Whether you’re thinking about joining a trip, coming to a hike, or simply exploring the outdoors more this year, we’d love to welcome you.

  • View Upcoming Trips
  • Join the Community Newsletter
  • Follow Along on Instagram
  • Explore Our Blog for Beginner Guides


This is your community.
Your adventure.
Your invitation to step outside and feel at home. 🌿💚