Not everyone feels comfortable going for a hike. Various groups are working to break down barriers so that more people can experience the joys and benefits of being in nature.
Hiking is a great way to exercise and enjoy the great outdoors. Hiking offers multiple mental and physical health benefits, reducing the risk of health issues like heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and anxiety. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, trails have become very popular as more and more people venture outside for recreation and respite. But this does not mean that everyone feels at ease about going outside for a hike or walk in nature. As Victoria Hernandez reports, "Longtime oppression and historical barriers have kept many people of color from feeling comfortable in the American outdoors." Fortunately, a number of local and national groups are working to change that so that more people can experience the joys and benefits of spending time in nature. Here are the organizations highlighted in the article:
- Latino Outdoors
- Hike Clerb
- The Black Neighborhood
- Black Girls Trekking
- Outdoor Asian
- Disabled Hikers
- American Hiking Society
For readers in the Los Angeles area, please also check out the following online resources for hiking information:
FULL STORY: Hiking has a diversity problem. These BIPOC groups are working to fix it
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