
Who are the Nature Friends?
The Nature Friends are a community of 350,000 hikers, mountaineers, climbers, skiers, snowboarders, cyclists, surfers, backpackers, and conservationists in 43 member organizations in 41 countries.
Founded in Vienna, Austria, for over 130 years the Nature Friends have shared the goals of promoting nature appreciation, outdoor activities, conservation, sustainability, and international friendship and understanding. Berg frei, “Free mountains,” is our slogan.

Be our guest on the mountain
We host cultural festivals a few times a year and other events at our 112+ year-old alpine lodge above Muir Woods on Mt. Tamalpais.
Interested in becoming a Nature Friend?
Becoming a member takes time and effort, and we expect an ongoing commitment to the club and your fellow members after you join.
The journey to membership starts by joining us at a monthly workday where we can get to know each other and you can learn more about membership in our community.
Camaraderie & Gemütlichkeit*
*A state or feeling of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer.
We value outdoor activities, working together, and good times with our fellow members.

Nature Friends at our ski lodge near Donner Summit during the 1940s.






















