Swipe Right in Real Life: New Yorkers are Finding Love and Friendship on Outdoor Dates with AMC

In a world of endless swiping, ghosted text threads, and dates that feel more like job interviews than romantic connections, it can be hard to believe that meeting someone out in the real world is still possible. But there’s a reason the Appalachian Mountain Club has been jokingly dubbed the “Appalachian Marriage Club”: a surprising number of couples have found love through AMC events and volunteer days. 

The outdoors attracts a certain kind of person. Not afraid to get a little sweaty? Check. Doesn’t pick all the M&Ms out of the trail mix? Check. Will go the extra mile for the perfect sunset spot? Check. But what connecting with someone outdoors really offers is a way to be present. To put down your phone, listen to the birds, notice the sun on your skin, and really be there with someone.

Why Nature is the Best Matchmaker 

Enter AMC’s Swipe Right Thursdays, a playful spin on the language of dating apps (swiping right on someone’s profile means “yes” to connecting). This once-a-month free event is an invitation to put down your phone and spend some time in the fresh air with other people who have the same interests you do. These guided outings bring together young professionals, newcomers to the city, and anyone looking for a few hours of walking, talking, and connecting. No algorithm needed.  

“A hike gives singles the opportunity to connect and talk in a way that isn’t threatening,” Robi Ludwig, a participant in August’s inaugural Swipe Right Thursday told the New York Post. “Having a common goal of meeting and spending time outside, all while getting to know each other, allows people to open up more naturally.” 

“It’s called Swipe Right Thursdays, but it’s really about saying yes to the outdoors and yes to new connections,” says AMC hiking guide Sofia Petroski, who leads the events. “Most people who show up are single, but plenty are there just to make friends. It’s about building community as much as finding romance.” 

A Happy Hour in Hiking Shoes 

Swipe Right Thursdays blend the energy of a happy hour with the grounding presence of nature. Instead of meeting over cocktails, participants meet at city parks, waterfronts, or neighborhood green spaces. The format is simple: arrive, introduce yourself, join the walk, and let conversations unfold. 

For Petroski, creating a welcoming atmosphere is the key. “I always start by asking, ‘Where are you coming from?’” she explains. “It’s such a simple question, but it opens doors—suddenly people are talking about neighborhoods, favorite coffee shops, or how they got here from Jersey. From there, the conversation flows.” 

Each event so far has drawn around a dozen people—big enough for variety, small enough for intimacy. Some stick with a single partner for a while, while others drift naturally from group to group. Icebreakers help when conversations stall, but they’re rarely needed. 

At one event, trivia about New York City’s urban forest sparked lively debate. At another, rock climbing gyms became the common thread. “I love watching it ripple,” says Petroski. “People start sharing about other events—paddle boarding on the Hudson, hikes in Harriman State Park—and suddenly they’re making plans beyond the night.” 

And yes, romance does blossom. Petroski laughs as she recalls someone asking her for another participant’s contact info after the first event. “When I see people swapping numbers, I feel like I’ve done my job,” she says. But friendship is just as important. Many attendees are new to the city and hungry for connection. AMC provides the spark; participants keep it going. 

Building Community in the Outdoors 

AMC has long believed that the outdoors isn’t just a backdrop for recreation—it’s a foundation for joy, health, and belonging. “Being outside has changed my life,” Petroski reflects. “The mental health benefits, the sense of grounding, the feeling that you’re part of something bigger—it’s powerful. I want to share that with as many people as possible.” 

What draws her to these events is the chance to offer people a fun, welcoming place to step away from the chaos of the city and be fully present. “Your only job right now is to be here,” she reminds participants. “That’s such a gift in a city where we’re always rushing.” 

The first two Swipe Right Thursdays have taken place in Manhattan, but the series is branching out. The October 2nd walk will be held in Brooklyn, Petroski’s home borough, where she’s excited to share local history along the route. Queens is next. The location will keep rotating, but the format stays the same: keep it light, keep it fun, keep it outdoors.  

And think of it this way: whether or not you meet the love of your life, at least you got out for a walk.  

In an increasingly disconnected world and a dating landscape that often feels transactional, these evenings offer something radical: a chance to slow down, enjoy nature in good company, and connect in person. And you don’t have to be in New York to find that, either—AMC offers ways to connect people to each other and the outdoors across our region. 

As Petroski puts it: “The outdoors grounds us all. When you bring people together in that space, you never know what connections you’ll find—but you know they’ll be real.” 

 

Find someone you want to explore with?

Here’s a Guide to Getting Outdoors in NYC