Tim Buchanan, the subject of The Long Trail Out, has lived his entire life in his hometown of East Aurora, New York. A local celebrity in his home, Tim is best known for his antics and his tremendous record as a youth mentor. He has started several programs for youth development including a very successful Peer Mentors Program. He is also a major outdoor enthusiast who loves to introduce people to the mountains and share the connection he has with nature. This desire never manifested itself more clearly than in the creation of Trail Camp, a program founded by Tim to teach local youth all about climbing and respecting the outdoors.
Tim also has a secret. Tim has lived his entire life hiding his true self from the world. Tim has been “in the closet” for 70 years. Growing up in an era that persecuted the thought of being gay, he was forced to live a double life and pretend to be something he is not. Working with kids during this time only heightened the intensity with which Tim held on to his secret, fearful of the backlash from the community. His only sanctuary was the mountains, where Tim could be free.
Tim also has a secret. Tim has lived his entire life hiding his true self from the world. Tim has been “in the closet” for 70 years. Growing up in an era that persecuted the thought of being gay, he was forced to live a double life and pretend to be something he is not. Working with kids during this time only heightened the intensity with which Tim held on to his secret, fearful of the backlash from the community. His only sanctuary was the mountains, where Tim could be free.