From chance encounters on community hikes to building an exciting outdoor collective, Trail DSTRS have created something that's far more than getting outside. Rooted in friendship, creativity and a shared appetite for adventure, they're redefining what outdoor culture can look like - where music, photography, style and wild places all exist in the same conversation.
We caught up with the crew to talk community, camping, SET:UP and the future of the outdoors.
1. For those who don’t know you - who are you and what do you do?
We’re a group of outdoor heads from all corners of the UK who you’ll usually find in remote locations getting up to all sorts.
2. How did Trail Dusters become a thing & how did you all meet?
The bulk of us met on community hikes as strangers and took it from there, with the addition of a few friends of friends and brothers we became the group were known as today.
3. Your community seems deeply rooted in creativity as much as adventure. How do music, fashion, photography, and art naturally intersect with the outdoors for you guys?
The outdoors is what brings DSTRS together, and all of our interests naturally intersect in keeping the community moving. Music is the soundtrack to our camps, photography captures our shenanigans, and fashion is the way we show up in the outdoors.
4. What projects have you got going on at the moment that you can tell us about?
Our big project for 2026 is our second iteration of SET:UP coming in September! Over a year of work spread amongst the DSTRS and a lot of favours from our mates. This is gonna be mint.
5. When you look around at everyone involved now, what makes you most proud of what the group has built together?
What started as a common interest has led to a massively diverse and deeply rooted friendship that allows us to tackle any challenges and brings the best out of each other.
6. What’s something about outdoor culture right now that excites you - and something you think needs to evolve?
With music being a core element of DSTRS it’s nice to see more events popping up that balance getting outdoors and enjoying a party. A recent highlight for us was the Arcteryx Academy which did just that.
Wild Camping in England needs to evolve. Somehow it’s still illegal below the fell wall.
7. Set Up Camp sounds exciting - What gap did you feel this event could fill?
We are seeing so many wellness festivals popping up and obviously there’s plenty of music festivals going on. SET:UP is focused around a unique blend of wellness, outdoor activities and a shared love for music culture. Blurring the lines between a wellness and a music fest.
8. Favourite camping spot in the UK?
Without a doubt Scotland, so much so we go every new years! Either that or our hidden spot in northern Uk which we have community events & parties. Good luck getting the location off us for that one though.
9. If you could build a full camping fit from Yards, what you going for?
Goldwin Gore-Tex Earflap Cap - Black
Goldwin WF Light L/S T-Shirt - Black
Goldwin Tonalith Mesh Half Zip Vest - Black
Goldwin CORDURA Stretch Ventilating Mil Shorts - Forest Leaf
DB Roamer Pro Sling Bag 6L - Black Out