Last month I got to enjoy an incredible solo ski trip across Denali National Park and Preserve—five days and 100 miles of profound solitude, reflection, and connection to a landscape that has shaped me deeply. Five glorious bluebird days, much of it across lands untracked by humans this winter, though myriad birds and mammals and winds and snows had left innumerable signs of their presence.
This experience was a deep privilege, and was possible because of privilege. I was able to fly out to Wonder Lake in a small plane and I had, or could purchase, the requisite gear. I grew up learning to ski and have taken numerous winter camping, avalanche safety, and wilderness medicine courses to feel safe alone in the Alaskan winter. For me, this trip highlighted the need to continue removing barriers so that everyone, regardless of identity, economic status, or background, can form their own meaningful relationships with the land.
As I prepare to step away from my role as director of Adventure Borealis, I find myself deeply grateful for the journey we’ve shared. Over the past two years, we’ve worked together to create inclusive spaces, foster meaningful connections with Alaska’s wild landscapes, and center equity, diversity, and accessibility in all our endeavors.
Alaska’s ecosystems need more than the traditional stories of conservation; they require new narratives shaped by diverse voices and lived experiences. Currently, conservation spaces remain disproportionately white and privileged. For conservation to truly thrive and evolve, it must embrace and amplify voices from every background, especially from communities historically underrepresented and underserved.
I’m particularly proud of the strides we’ve made this year: hosting the Diversity in the Outdoors retreat in Denali, where 11 young leaders strengthened networks and collaborations; launching our BIPOC bird club to learn and share together in a space that feels familiar; and providing transformative outdoor experiences for first-generation and low-income students through initiatives such as the Leadership at Macomb Plateau retreat. Each of these programs embodies our commitment to inclusion, relationship-building, and active stewardship.
According to Alaska’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, outdoor recreation in our state is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by an increasing demand for intimate, active, and self-directed experiences. Yet, 20% of respondents in a recent survey about inclusion in the outdoors say they have experienced discrimination outside, and BIPOC and LGBTQ+ people are more likely than others to feel unwelcome. This evolving trend underscores the importance of our work in fostering inclusive and accessible outdoor experiences.
As these values are under direct attack, uplifting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the outdoors is an essential act of resistance. No external change can come about without also transforming oneself. In the practice of natural history—as attention and curiosity give way to insight, wonder, gratitude, and a sense of responsibility—we are transformed, and our sense of community is expanded to the beings and lands with which we are in relationship. Natural history, too, in this time of extractive economies and oligarchal values, is an act of resistance. Adventure Borealis must continue this critical work—embracing Indigenous stewardship, multicultural values, and intergenerational leadership—to ensure Alaska’s landscapes remain vibrant, intact, and beloved by future generations.
While my role is changing, my commitment to these values remains unwavering. Thank you all for the incredible opportunity to grow, learn, and advocate alongside you. I leave filled with hope, knowing that Adventure Borealis is poised to continue this essential journey with passion, purpose, and inclusivity at its core.
With deep gratitude and optimism,
Ryan Arash Marsh
Outgoing Director, Adventure Borealis
