Imagine sleeping under thousands of stars. Climbing up a lichen-covered cliff. Roasting marshmallows while camping.  

Adventure looks different to everyone. For some, it’s summiting mountains or surfing big waves. For others, it’s a leisurely walk on a new path in your neighborhood. Opportunities for outdoor adventure are endless and all around us.   

A great way to develop a deeper love for our planet is to get outside and savor its beauty. Strong connections with nature create awareness of the interdependence between our own lives and the environment. Respect and appreciation for the natural world are the basis for a sustainable society where people and the Earth live in harmony.

Everyone deserves to enjoy the great outdoors. Unfortunately, not everyone has access or feels welcome. Recent US census data indicated that white people constitute 60% of the population, yet upwards of 95% of all visitors to public lands and over 80% of all employees of the National Park Service are white. Additionally, many media campaigns for outdoor gear and excursions overrepresent white people and do not accurately depict the diversity of the United States or convey an inclusive environment.

This doesn’t mean that other groups don’t want outdoor adventures. BIPOC and LGBTQ+ community members report feeling uncomfortable and unsafe in outdoor spaces, from which marginalized groups have been systematically excluded. 74% of non-white people live in nature-deprived areas, and 70% of low-income people report not having direct access to nature.

To understand this accessibility gap, we need to look back at history. When the 1964 Civil Rights Act was passed, one provision allowed Black people in the United States to visit state and national parks for the first time. People like John Muir were influential in the creation of many parks, however his idea of “pristine wilderness” has intentionally prevented Indigenous groups from living on and utilizing traditional sites, even though they were built on land taken from Indigenous peoples. Colonization in the Americas created inequitable power structures that limit Indigenous access to their land and disrespect their rights and livelihoods. Outdoor recreation has been historically marketed as a hobby for white, cisgender, heterosexual, able-bodied, affluent people.

A financial accessibility gap exists in the outdoor industry, as many activities like climbing and camping require expensive equipment. Physical accessibility issues are also paramount, and even seemingly small solutions like installing handrails or ramps in parks can create a more welcoming atmosphere.

We can all help ensure outdoor spaces can be explored and enjoyed by wider audiences. Start by learning more about the history of the outdoors. Live your values by contacting elected representatives to advocate for inclusive policies for recreation, as well as conservation policies and climate action. Call further attention to the economic value of nature by supporting sustainable outdoor tourism that benefits local communities and environments, which can be a big economic boost. Follow and support diverse outdoor explorers and activists!

Indigenous peoples are some of the best stewards of our natural environment with traditional and modern conservation practices and respect for all life. Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation who describes Indigenous knowledge and practices in her book Braiding Sweetgrass. Dr. Kimmerer challenges Eurocentric views of nature by showing how we all can learn from the plants and animals around us. Repairing respectful, loving relationships with nature can help people enjoy and sustain Mother Earth for today, tomorrow and tomorrow’s tomorrow.

We are far from alone in this fight! Mission-driven organizations leverage their platforms to effect equitable change and advocate for environmental protection. Our partner Patagonia Provisions makes foods that are a part of the solution — nutritious, ethical, regenerative, and ready for life on-the-go. On hikes, during outdoor activities or in a dorm room with no stove, anyone anywhere can sustain themselves to adventure onward. And while you’re at it, be sure to Leave No Trace, the fitting name of our partner organization today, that works to sustain healthy, vibrant natural lands by addressing damaged trails and natural areas, polluted water, at risk wildlife, destructive fires, crowded parks and the disconnect between youth and nature.

This challenge will help us to support, expand and fight for thriving, inclusive natural spaces that belong to and are available for all.

Each Greener Winner will receive:

• A $50 gift code from our partner Patagonia Provisions, a B Corp and member of 1% for the Planet which makes organic food that tastes good, and is made using methods that are friendly to our planet.
• A water-resistant, rechargeable and extendable/retractable LED tape light from Barebones Living, a B Corp that meets the highest verified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
• An After Bug Bite Relief Stick from Badger Balm, a B Corp that cultivates goodness through business practices that are trustworthy, ecologically responsible, and respectful of all people inside and outside their walls.

Each Greenest Winner will receive:

• A $75 gift code from our partner Patagonia Provisions, a B Corp and member of 1% for the Planet which makes organic food that tastes good, and is made using methods that are friendly to our planet.
• A Paravel backpack. Each of Paravel’s foldable nylon backpacks is made from 15 upcycled plastic water bottles. At Paravel, sustainability is at the core of every decision as they fight against climate change. 
• An Anti Bug Balm Stick from Badger Balm, a B Corp that cultivates goodness through business practices that are trustworthy, ecologically responsible, and respectful of all people inside and outside their walls.