Not all disabilities are immediately apparent. In fact, there are a variety of physical, mental, and neurological conditions that aren’t visible from the outside, yet present their own sets of challenges, as these can restrict or challenge a person’s senses or physical capabilities. On this page, we aim to make these invisible disabilities more visible, and encourage everyone to find comfort in national parks. Follow along!
One of the best experiences I’ve ever had in a national park wasn’t necessarily because of the things people usually think of, like gorgeous views, wild nature, and friendly park staff. Rather, it was because of signs—that’s right, those things often considered “trail noise,” cluttering pristine nature, made the difference between a positive and negative experience for me.
My hope is that by expanding the narrative about disability and the outdoors, we can create a richer community of national park lovers and advocates. We all deserve to enjoy the benefits that time in nature provides; we all deserve to love ourselves and love the places we are in.
