Have you ever faced a dream where your surroundings appear to be disappearing around you? The ground becomes a white elusive surface and the walls around you appear to close in and expand at the same time. The air is thick; it’s hard to breathe, and suddenly you realize that you’re in an infinite box of nothingness. Through sheer fortune, the alarm clock sounds and you’re snapped back into a reality of tangibility. 

Unfortunately, for the world of trail running (or any outdoor mountain activity), these nightmares are becoming their own twisted form of reality. With growing environmental issues, trails are at grave risk of disappearing. As controversial of a statement as it might be, it is in the hands of us, trail runners (and outdoor enthusiasts) to conserve the precious landscapes we so desperately love, and not only for us, but for future generations. 

Trail running in itself can be a daunting activity; shortness of breath and achy joints make it seemingly impossible to push upward and forward in the moment. However, each pain is alleviated by a rush of beauty that surrounds oneself. In those difficult flashpoints, the act of running is no longer about fitness; it’s about connecting with nature and allowing it to propel you forward. Thus, it is imperative that we heal and prevent further destruction of the very core that allows us partake in everyday runs and participate in thrilling races: Mother Nature. 

Environmental degradation is exasperated by habitat loss, urban development, and climate change. Each of these instances destroy the infrastructure of trail systems by encroaching on the land or increasing the likelihood of unfavorable weather patterns. With more time and less energy dedicated to carefully choosing means by which we live, there will be catastrophic and irreversible implications. 

So, what can we do to spearhead initiatives to protect the precious trails that we call home? It can start small but have major positive outcomes. Use your voice. Advocate for Mother Nature as if she were your best friend. To do this, participate in town meetings or even write to policymakers. If you’d like to take it a step further, join conservation organizations that were put in place to combat this infectious disease of destruction. A beautiful organization, called Treecard helps in more ways than one. They plant trees worldwide to replenish forests that we have striped, and you can even use rewards to adopt endangered animals. Lastly, and most importantly, reduce your own personal impact on a day-to-day basis. Engage in eco-friendly habits such as always taking your trash with you, using sustainable gear, and simply respecting green spaces. It’s that easy. Heck, there are even some runs that I take a small bag and collect trash if I see it. In summary: do something. 

If you’re still doubtful, then let me explain why you should care. Our physical health is protected by our ability to get outside and move in our surroundings. Further, the soul-cleansing atmosphere of the environment aids in benefitting mental health. If this isn’t enough, and you do not feel as though it would impact you, do it for the future generations. Do it for your kids or even your friend’s kids. Be a role model in the community to leave natural beauty in its former, unchanged, and beautiful state. 

I implore you to take a step back and realize the dire need of the environment to remain as beautiful as ever. Be there for it as it’s always been there for you.