We created the Disability is Natural Challenge as a disability-centered annual outdoor challenge. Being outdoors can improve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, enhance our sense of belonging, and help us connect with others. But there are few accessible opportunities for the disability community to participate in challenges and experience the outdoors. So how can we enjoy some of the same benefits?

The Disability is Natural Challenge is meant to inspire you to enjoy nature in the ways that are accessible for you, have fun with other participants, and help you grow in awareness and connection with place.

The Challenge

52 times over the next 12 months, notice something in nature. You can do this once a week, a few times in a month, or any way that works for you! There is no expectation for when or how often you participate - just have fun! Notice something outside your window, on your commute, during a hike, in your body, or any where else in the course of your daily life. Take a photo, draw a picture, or record a note of where you were and what you experienced. Share it on social media and tag @DisabledHikers or use the hashtag #DisabilityIsNaturalChallenge and #DisabledHikers

The Fundraiser

Joining the fundraiser is optional, but it is a great way to spread awareness, have fun, and support Disabled Hikers. Make a donation on your own, or create a team and invite your friends and family to join. Ask people to pledge a donation for every challenge you complete.

To fundraise, click Join the Challenge under the Team Member section. Complete the sign up information then create or join a team. Share your team link with people who want to support your challenge.

To make a donation without fundraising, just click the donate button.

Why Accessible Nature Awareness?

Any way that you notice or experience nature counts for this challenge! From the smallest being to the grandest sky - including the ways that nature is present in our own bodies. For example, you may notice the way a bee explores a flower, how the wind sounds in the tree outside your window, or how your unique sensory experiences are reflected in the natural world.

We don’t always need a big adventure to feel connected with nature and receive the benefits of being outdoors. We can, and perhaps we should, achieve the same things by being present with nature that is around us every day. Connecting with the natural world in our daily lives can remind us that we are not separate from nature. It is something that we can do anywhere: from the bed, from the bus, from the top of the mountain.

Non-disabled people are welcome to participate too. You are encouraged to join the fundraiser! You may learn something from us about slowing down and enjoying the experience where you are.

The Disability is Natural Challenge

Celebrating disability and nature connection

Team Leaderboard

Team Members