Drag artist, activist and outdoor advocate Pattie Gonia has completed one of her most ambitious projects to date: a 100-mile backpacking trek from northern Marin County to San Francisco, all in full drag. The multiday journey, which concluded this week, raised nearly $1.2 million for eight nonprofits dedicated to expanding equitable outdoor access for queer people, BIPOC communities and youth.
The funds will be divided among organizations that promote inclusive outdoor experiences and environmental stewardship, including Brave Trails, Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps and The Outdoorist Oath. Each nonprofit focuses on broadening access to outdoor spaces for communities historically excluded from them, as well as supporting education programs, leadership training and environmental justice initiatives.
Pattie, known for blending camp, climate activism and community-building, used the trek to spotlight just how powerful collective action can be, even when delivered with humor and heels. Along the trail, she hiked, camped and engaged supporters through social media updates that balanced sincerity with classic drag irreverence.
“The devil works hard but we work harder,” she said during the journey, a phrase that quickly became a rallying cry among her followers.
She also emphasized the deeper purpose behind the spectacle: “Don’t let anyone tell you that when we work together we can’t make change happen.”
The 100-mile trek brought visibility to the ongoing barriers many marginalized groups face in accessing safe and welcoming outdoor spaces. From financial hurdles to systemic exclusion, Pattie’s fundraising effort aimed to address those inequities directly. Through humor and dramatic flair, she sought to draw attention to the seriousness of the cause without sacrificing joy.
“It’s time for silly solutions to serious problems,” she said, underscoring her belief that activism does not need to be grim to be effective.
Pattie has long used drag as a tool for education and empowerment within environmental movements. “Drag has taught me that you can take fighting for something seriously without taking yourself too seriously,” she said, a sentiment that reflects her distinctive approach to community activism.
The success of the fundraiser marks one of the largest community-driven financial efforts Pattie has led, and the nearly $1.2 million contribution will significantly expand the reach of organizations working to make the outdoors safer, more inclusive and more sustainable.
