13 Ways Woke Culture Is Influencing Outdoor Recreation

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The escape Americans have used to sever the bonds of daily life and touch base with nature has been outdoor recreation for a long time. But as they do so and society becomes more open, the way people approach these experiences is also changing. The rise of ‘woke culture’; a term that usually describes heightened awareness of social justice, equality and environmental issues is seeping into the way people hike, camp and explore the outdoors. This cultural shift is leading the way out onto the trail, whether its pushing for accessibility or questioning how we deal with wildlife.

Some people view these changes as a positive step, while others argue about what effect they will have on traditional outdoor recreation. Whether or not you agree with where they stand, it’s undeniable that this evolution is changing outdoor recreation. Here are a few of these cultural influences to consider.

Diversity and Inclusion in Outdoor Spaces

Women Hiking in a Forest — Photo Credit: PNW Production/Pexels

The push for greater representation is one of the most visible shifts in outdoor culture. Outdoors recreation has been traditionally led by a small group of folks, but movements like Black Girls Hike and Latino Outdoors are trying to change that. And these groups remind us the wilderness should be for everyone, no matter the color of your skin or your background. The outdoor industry has also taken action, putting diverse adventurers up in their campaigns, although a small and powerful first step toward determining who belongs outside.

All Abilities Accessible Trails

Trekking the Kokoda Trail (Papua New Guinea) — Image Credit: Luke Brindley via wikimedia commons

This is a focus that’s becoming increasingly important as advocates seek trails and parks that are accessible to people with disabilities. Public lands are starting to become more inclusive to all adventurers — from wheelchair friendly overlooks to paved paths. A report issued by the National Institute of Health indicated that more national parks are making accessibility improvements so more people can enjoy the great outdoors.

Sustainable Gear Choices

Outdoor brands are under pressure to go green. More and more shoppers are asking where their gear comes from, and how it’s made. Patagonia and REI are among the brands that are using recycled materials and low waste processes during production. Looking good on the trail is not just about looking good on the trail, it’s about treading lightly on the planet.

Evaluations of Wildlife Interactions.

Deadliest Creatures in North America That Could Kill You! — Image Credits: Jean Beaufort, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The days when it was okay to feed the ducks, or pose with a sedated tiger are gone. This conversation on ethical wildlife interaction has been sparked by woke culture. Now it is not about interfering, but about observing. A study published on Wiley showed how what many see as innocuous actions, like feeding animals, can be ecologically damaging. Today’s adventurers are advised to admire from afar.

Rethinking Gender Role

The domain of the rugged man with the flannel shirt and axe is no longer the view of the outdoors. Women, non binary, and gender non conforming people are busting down barriers in outdoor recreation. Women Who Explore is a group that empowers women to take on an adventure that was once considered too extreme for women to do, and demonstrates that grit and adventure are gender neutral.

Community Over Competition

Climbing El Caminito del Rey (Spain) — Image Credit: Gabirulo/Wikimedia Commons

Woke culture has also blunted the edges of traditional outdoor sports, changing them from competition to community. For example, climbers now celebrate when a teammate gets to the top rather than being the first to get there. As a result, outdoor recreation is more inviting, and is especially welcoming to newcomers who might otherwise feel intimidated.

Showing Indigenous Stewardship

Another big change is the push to recognize Indigenous ties to the land. The original stewards of the places outdoor enthusiasts love to visit are becoming more known to them. At some trailheads and parks, land acknowledgments remind visitors that outdoor spaces generally hold deep cultural and historical significance for Indigenous communities; others have educational plaques that clarify the meaning behind the land acknowledgments.

Calling Out Cultural Appropriation

Facts About Native Americans Most People Don't Know — Photo Credit: Pixabay

The woke culture also exposes ways traditional practices and symbols are misused in outdoor recreation. It’s everything from wearing Native headdresses at festivals to misusing sacred terms like “spirit animal.” These conversations encourage adventurers to think more thoughtfully and respectfully about their adventures outdoors.

A Move Toward Leave No Trace Principles

trash troubles — Image Credit: Emphyrio/Pixabay

A set of ethics called Leave No Trace encouraging environmental stewardship is gaining a new life. The public is now more aware of the impact of their visit to pristine destinations thanks to social media. According to statistics from the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, more people now seek to tread lightly on the earth.

Mental Health Benefits Are Prioritized

The movement to outdoor recreation has dovetailed with the mental health movement in nature as a healing space. It’s now widely understood that spending time in the outdoors helps to reduce anxiety and depression. Even 20 minutes in nature can dramatically lower cortisol levels. As a result, yoga hikes, and mindfulness retreats are some of the outdoor programming that are geared towards emotional well being.

Food Choices in the Wild

Adventurers rethinking their food choices and outdoor cooking. The trail is becoming an ethical eating ground as more people choose plant based meals for their less environmental impact. Beef jerky is being swapped out for dehydrated chickpeas by backpacking chefs, showing you can eat sustainably without sacrificing flavor.

The Rise of Digital Activism

Common Habits That Might Be Putting Your Identity at Risk — Image credit: Tracy Le Blanc/Pexels

The change includes technology as well. Apps and social media platforms are spreading the word about topics like trail preservation and over tourism. Hashtag campaigns such as #RecreateResponsibly prompt users to be conscious of their outdoor behavior, as what they do in real life will impact real life.

Ethical Outdoor Tourism

Lastly, outdoor tourism ethics have been called out by woke culture. They’re questioning how their visits impact local communities, ecosystems. Pivoting, adventure companies are selling trips that help the environment and involve locals as partners in a more sustainable outdoor economy.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.